Interview Prep 101 – SHEs Ready! Toolkit

Shared by: SU Team

The fact is for many without preparation the potential for success would be minimize. After Resume Basics, securing the job begins with interview preparation. This post will give you an overview of seven tips to developing a meaningful strategy for enhancing your interview planning process. Following the rights steps may not guarantee anything, but if you do not follow any steps you can guarantee your efforts will be unsuccessful.

Tip #1 – Interviews are not One Size Fits All

Depending on the job and the organization you are interviewing with, the interview prep will vary. In your toolkit, you should have a general idea of items you want to get across to the interview panel that aligns with your knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Tip #2 – Know “THEIR” History

Most interviewers will ask the interviewee questions about the company and could even ask general questions such as “what do you know about XXX company”. Your toolkit should always involve conducting research on the organization. Anything that is public knowledge and found by doing an online search should be information you are aware of and prepare to discuss during interview.

Tip #3 – Prepare Attentive Questions

Interviewers take note of the questions asked by interviewees. Thoughtful questions asked during an interview session show the candidate’s interest in the position and the company. Your toolkit should have a prep sheet that has space for two to four questions that you are prepared to ask showing you’ve conducted research and are well-versed in the position you are applying for. Some sample questions include:

• What does an ordinary day look like for an individual in this position?

• When are you looking to fill this position?

Tip #4 – Understand the Industry

Many individuals are actively applying for jobs so when an interview is scheduled, there is a potential you do not remember the position you applied for. Understanding the industry standard for the job you are interviewing for is key. This is as simple as going back to the electronic tool used for the application, reviewing your submission resume, or even doing an online search based on the job title. Your toolkit requires you to have a basic understanding of what is expected of you if you get the position.

Tip #5 – To Be Early is to Be on Time

Being prepared includes being on time for your interview. As an active interviewer, you can tell when individuals come into the office rushed as they are still trying to gather themselves when you start the interview. Individuals that arrive early, have an opportunity to catch their breath, review their notes, meditate and seize the moments needed for the interview. Your toolkit should include a plan for transportation route with hiccups. After all, arriving early is being on time – this is for you! Punctuality speaks volumes.