This is an excellent checklist for the important things to remember as you prepare for that important an interview. Take some time to go through.
A Week Before the Interview
1. Take some time to research the position and the organization at hand. To get information that is company-specific, , run a search on the internet,visit your local library or talk to former or current employees about their impressions of the company and experiences. Research the organization’s services and products, target market, industry, annual sales,history, geographic location(s), structure,offices, and any other relevant information. In the industry are there any new trends?
2. Find out the company’s major competitors then do some basic research on their differences (either negatively or positively) from the organization at which you are interviewing.
3. Come up with specific examples of how your experience and skills make you a perfect fit for the company’s needs. Practice answering interview questions about your education,skills and experience and how they relate to the position you applying for. Being prepared to draw similarities between the needs of the company and your experience is one of the most essential interviewing skills you will need to master.
4. Identify your weaknesses and strengths. You should be ready to talk about your weaknesses, but find a way you can mention them positively. For example, “I am perfectionist and that is my biggest weakness. To get a project done to my satisfaction It may take me a little extra time. But you can be assured that the work will pass even the most rigorous review, no detail will be overlooked and will be100% accurate.”
5. Come up with a number of intelligent questions about the position and company that will show your knowledge of the company as well as your sincere interest in the position.
6. Put on your favorite suit and make sure that it is in good repair and still well-fitting. If required, make arrangements to have it re-tailored or just buy a new one.
The Day before the Interview
1. Contact the organisation to confirm the time and date of your interview. Also confirm the title and name of the people you will be meeting.
2. Find out the directions to the interview site. Use a map to double check the directions. This will guarantee that you know the way as well as give you an approximate travel time – allow some extra time for rush hour, do not forget that!
3. Check your entire interview outfit thoroughly. Check it for any wrinkles, snags or spots.
4. Print out some extra copies of your cover letter and resume. It’s always a great idea to have a backup copy even if the interviewer has a copy of their own. This is also of help if you end up interviewing with a number of individuals, since the one in charge might be the only one with a copy of your resume.
Get a good night’s sleep!
1. For your brain ran at peak performance it needs fuel and if there was any day you needed 101% from your brain, it’s today. So you should not skimp meals. Be mindful about eating large portions of carbohydrates right before your interview though, since carbs are known to cause drowsiness.
2. Make sure you dress up early so you do not feel pressured to rush out. Pay particular attention to the details ( Comb your hair, brush off any lint, use deodorant, brush your teeth, etc.) and remember first impressions are always important. They can reveal a lot about you and your character.
3. Don’t forget to take copies of your resume, your cover letter as well as your portfolio if you have one.
4. Make sure you have plenty of time to get to your interview. If you are 15 minutes earlier, it’s good to wait outside the building or in the car. Showing up too early gives off the impression that you have nothing better to do with your time, and also pressures the interviewer(s) into feeling that they have to adjust their schedule to accommodate you.
5.Shake everyone’s hand and smile when you are meeting for the first time – you should also shake hands and smile when the interview is done.
6. You are definitely well-prepared for the interview, If you have done your homework so just relax. if you need to when being asked a question, spend a moment collecting your thoughts and take a deep breath before you answer .If you don’t know a particular question you are asked, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification.
After the Interview
Jot down a quick “Thank You” message to the people who interviewed you. These are the Things To Remember As You Prepare For an Interview