8 Ways to Ace a Job Interview
Don’t try to “wing it," says Amy Chauvin of the Office of Career Services at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
Chauvin and the Career Services staff coach students through the job search process.
“A lot of students come in not knowing what to expect in that first job interview,” she says. “We want to make sure they’re prepared, put their best foot forward, and hopefully land the job.”
Interviews are a two-way process, adds Chauvin, assistant director of Career Services. The employer is interviewing the student just as much as the student is interviewing the employer. The job situation has to be a good fit for both.
Here are key steps for a successful job interview.
1. Do Your Research
You should be informed about both the job and the company you're pursuing. Before the interview, do your research.
Study the job listing. Become familiar with what the job entails so you can stress why you’re perfect for the role. Know the company’s mission statements and some of its important facts, like when it was established and by whom.
Also, try to learn about the group you would work with. This will help you prepare for the atmosphere of the interview.
2. Be Prepared
Arrive to the interview 10-15 minutes early. Make sure you have your credentials (e.g., your resume, references, contact info) filed neatly. Review general interview questions and have answers prepared for them. Some suggest having a hook that makes you stand out from other candidates and magnifies your strengths.
Once you have these tips down, practice them! Rehearse your icebreaker, your hook and how you would answer questions.
3. Look the Part
Your appearance is the first thing they will notice about you. In order to portray yourself as a solid candidate, avoid bright, gaudy colors, ill-fitting clothing, or excessive jewelry. Opt for neutral tones such as black, tan, white, blue or gray — colors that suggest you are skillful and capable.
Wear tailored clothing that fits your body type and keep the jewelry down to a minimum.
4. Relax!
It may seem daunting, but the actual interview is not nearly as intense as you might think it will be. Don’t stay up all night worrying or thinking of worst-case scenarios. Prepare your outfit the night before, get a good night’s rest, and eat a good breakfast the morning of. Listen to your favorite song on your way there or call your best friend for a boost. Remember to smile during the interview (it helps you relax) and show interest in what this company has to offer.
“If you’re prepared for the interview, then you’ll stay calm and relaxed,” Chauvin says.
5. Demonstrate Good Body Posture
Body language speaks volumes. Show the interviewer how alert and engaged you are with good body posture. Sit with your back straight and your hands in your lap. Try to keep your palms upward or your fingertips pressing in a steeple-like formation. You can also have your hands loosely clasped. Avoid hiding your hands in your pockets, folding your arms, fidgeting or using too many hand gestures.
Maintain eye contact. This shows that you are engaged and actively listening to what they are saying. Looking around or looking down implies that you are nervous.
6. Accentuate Similarities
Studies show you're more likely to be considered for a job if you share things in common with the interviewer. It can make a difference if they can relate to you.
This doesn't mean abandon your identity, but you can emphasize traits you have in common. For instance, if their office has sports memorabilia, and you know about that sport, that could be an icebreaker.
7. Be Authentic
While it is important to be prepared for the interview, don’t turn into a robot. You can still let your true self shine through your professional demeanor. You should rehearse what you will say, but don’t memorize each answer. It's okay to pause before you reply to show you're giving thoughtful, honest answers. Interviewers will appreciate your candor.
“Think of different experiences you have and discuss them,” Chauvin says. “It can be a class project, work or volunteer experience, anything that shows the skills the employer is looking for.”
8. Follow Up
The interview is over, and you nailed it. Now ask the interviewer about their next steps. Their response will help you know how to follow up.
If they're choosing a candidate within the next week, you can send a follow-up email within the next few days. Thank-you notes, on the other hand, should get out as soon as possible, preferably the next day. Following up will help them remember you and give you an edge over those who didn’t.
To contact Career Services, call 337-482-1444.
