Chat With Chels: Interview Tips
Hey Chelsea, I was wondering if you had any solid interview tips. I was recently let go of my previous job and feel like I need to brush up on my interviewing skills since I have been out of the game for quite some time. To be honest, I’m a little nervous and not sure where to begin. What have you found to be most successful? I don’t even know what to wear, ah! Thank you for your advice, wish me luck!
Starting over,
Unemployed
Dear unemployed,
Before we take one more step down the interview path let’s do this, ready? Inhale. Exhale. This is a transitional period of life that many of us have gone through so please do not feel nervous or alone. The best way to shake those nerves is to be prepared for what’s around the corner. I have listed my top 10 tips on how to master an interview and also linked appropriate outfits. Good luck! Let me know how it goes :)
1. Research the company
You wouldn’t walk into a test without studying, right? Nothing would be worse than going into an interview completely blind to the company’s history and mission statement. Do you homework and know that it’s ok to bring your notes with you.
2. Update your resume
Before sending in or handing over your resume double check that everything is up to date. If you want to pull and Elle Woods and print it on scented paper, go for gold girl! ;) On a more serious note, make sure that everything looks clean and tidy and printing on thick paper is recommended.
3. Dress the part
In the words of Oscar Wilde, “you can never be overdressed or over educated.” By researching the company before hand will give you a better vibe of how to dress. As you are looking through your closet have the mindset that you are dressing for the position you aspire to have. Interview dress options linked below.
4. Do not be late
If you are on time, you are late. My rule of thumb is to always arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled time.
5. Firm handshake
A solid handshake exudes confidence and leaves a lasting impression. In my opinion a flimsy handshake says a lot about a person and their business skills.
6. Eye contact is key
To be honest, this should apply to all areas of your life: keep eye contact and smile when meeting someone. Show off your energetic and polite personality to all of those you come in contact with during your interview as you never know who will be the one to put in a good word!
7. Tongue tied
Obviously you will be asked many questions while you are in the hot seat so, be prepared as much as you can. It’s fair to say there is a large chance that questions such as, “Tell me about yourself.” / “Why do you want this job?” / “How has your previous work experience prepared you for this position?” will be asked. Having a prepared answer to those questions will aid in you rocking it!
8. Sit up straight
Imagine if you were the interviewer and a candidate came in and slouched throughout the process – it may lead you to question their enthusiasm. Sitting up straight is a subtle yet powerful way to make a positive impression. Pull out the stops!
9. Next step
The unknown is what drives us all crazy! As the interview is coming to a close feel free to ask about next steps and if you are, make it known that you are very interested in the position. Don’t be shy to ask when they are thinking about making a decision that way you will have an insight to their timeline.
10. Thank you
It may sound crazy old school but writing a handwritten thank you note will earn you bonus points. I would suggest putting the note in the mail directly after your interview so the company receives it in a timely manner.
Scroll through interview approved looks here:
