EP 28: ACE THE INTERVIEW: Tips & Tricks on How to Prep for Your Next Interview ( From My Car!)

Since I can remember interviewing was always one of my favorite things to do! I know, I am a true dork! BUT..I always felt energized by the idea to answer questions about myself because no one knows you better than YOU!

One of the most important parts about interviewing is that it's just a conversation. Whether you're in an interview with one person or a group, it is about you sharing your brightest moments and being able to let others get to know you. Learn about your skills, values, and experiences. 

 

You should always remember that you're interviewing them too just as much as they're interviewing you! You want to make sure these folx jive with you and that the feel of the environment and culture of the organization matches your style and your energy. If you're doing a remote interview, ask questions about the work environment and how they would describe it. 

 

HERE ARE MY TOP 11 TIPS FOR ACING THE INTERVIEW

1. Review the Job Description

• This is critical to help you understand what they expect of you in the role. The job description has the day to day responsibilities that you should anticipate if you were hired. 
• A question you can ask is, "What are some challenges you expect your ideal candidate to have in this role?" If their response is way off from the job description then you know you need to ask more questions. 

2. Why Are You Interviewing? Are You Qualified For The Job?

• You're probably wondering why this would be important. Truth is sometimes we get too deep into the job search process and don't always ask ourselves if this job is going to be a good fit. You want to make sure that the company truly where you see yourself spending your precious time. 

3. Research The Company, Culture, What They Do and The Job!

• DO YOUR HOMEWORK!! As I mentioned in the podcast you have to be on your "A" game to answer questions about the organization. Get a feel for who they are and what they do. 

4. Create Practical Questions To Ask In Your Interview

• You can google some questions to ask, but I think you should do your homework to get a better sense. Be mindful of how many questions you ask.

5. Practice Your Posture, Body Language and Speaking

• Work on this with a friend or family member. This is important. You want to seem engaged and ready to work!

6. Consider How You Would Answer Behavioral Interview Questions

• Most interviews are behavioral. This means the questions are shaped around a situation that you need to share your experience. 
• Typically you're asked to provide examples of how you handled a situation. 
  • I would encourage most people to review the STAR method
    • Situation
    • Task
    • Action
    • Result
  • This is a common way to provide the interviewer with all details related to their question. 
  • A good way of practicing is by reviewing the responsibilities in the job description and thinking of scenarios that may arise from those duties.

7. Conduct a Practice OR Mock Interview

• Practice doesn't make perfect always, but helps you to relax be more comfortable in the situation and handle the conversation more smoothly

8. Prepare Your Resume

• Most companies have your resume before you arrive. BUT don't always expect that they will. Be sure to ask during the time of scheduling your interview who you should anticipate to meet with. Or ask how many people. 
• If you don't get a response, bring a minimum of 5 copies of your resume with you

9. Day Prior to Interview: Review Details of Location/Time/Attire

• A practice run is always ideal for travelling to an interview. Get familiar with your location and how much time it takes to travel. Arrive 10-15 minute prior to your interview.
• If your interview is remote, great! Be sure to look fresh and groomed (good lighting and professional attire)
• Business Professional is always BEST for an interview. Unless otherwise noted by the employer, you should ALWAYS plan to dress in a suite of sorts. You can google Business Professional for some suggestions. 
• Stick to neutral colors, no patterns or flash colors.

10. Sell Yourself- They Want to Get to Know You!

• The most common incorrectly answered interview question is, "tell us about yourself" People miss the opportunity for a connection to be developed. Really tell them who you are!

11. Follow-Up!

• Send a thank you email or note within 24-48hours your interview. Be sure to highlight critical points of the conversation. 

 

12K Giveaway

 I recently made an announcement on social media that I was doing a 12K giveaway of my own money to help 3 people for 3 months to help them in their careers and lives. These are 3 exclusive spots in my coaching program and I still have room 1 more! If you think you need this in your life and want to see if you qualify, comment to the post on Facebook:

www.facebook.com/groups/coachingformillennials/

and Instagram @josemiguellongo and let me know why you need this. If you’re not comfortable commenting head over to the DM’s. I will be on the lookout for your comments and messages. Can’t wait to hear from you!

If you like this episode please leave us a review. It would mean the world. Also let us know what else you want to learn or hear.

Xo,

José Miguel

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