Sure, nerves can be healthy. And it’s absolutely normal to be nervous. But, wouldn’t you feel more confident if you knew you weren’t sweating profusely and going to freeze up on every answer? Here are some tips to help you prepare!
1. Do your research ahead of time. Google them, look them up on LinkedIn, read through their tweets and facebook page. This will give you a sense of familiarity with them. Find out the names of the people you will be meeting with and what position they work in. Come up with at least one question for each of them that relates to the job or the business. Make sure you know where you’re going for the interview, what time to be there, how much time it will take to get there, and if you need to bring anything aside from extra resumes.
2. Check yourself out in the mirror! Make sure your suit (if applicable) is dry cleaned, stain free, and has no wrinkles. Make sure your hair is clean and styled nicely. Keep the jewelry and the cologne or perfume to a minimum. Are you able to walk comfortably in your shoes?
3. Get yourself ready for the questions. Think about questions they might ask you. Your career center and google will be a great resource for you. Prepare answers to any questions you think you might get asked.
4. Take the time to think about 6 opportunities for growth- where you excelled and where you struggled but still learned. What skills did you gain? What did you do, and what was the outcome? They can be examples from class, work, or internships. What are things you have done outside of the box, like a study abroad or a massive research project? Have you sat in on any webinars, received any certifications, or been recognized for outstanding work? The important thing here is to learn about yourself! Be proud of things you have accomplished AND learned from! Be able to articulate these things.
5. Have questions ready for when they ask “Do you have any questions for me?” Remember to stay away from questions about salary, benefits, or time off. Also, don’t ask questions you could answer by Googling them. Think about questions like “What drew you to working here?” “What are the best and worst parts about working here?” “How do you see this position evolving over 5 years?” “What are opportunities for professional development?” and especially “What is your timeline for the rest of the process?”
ALBRIGHT ELCDC 