How to prepare for a job interview

Job interview Preparation Larry Polhill

Regardless of how stellar the information people put down in their resume, it’s important that job applicants also do well with all the rounds of interviews they are invited to. Some people say that getting a job is 30% of what’s in a resume and 70% from the interview. This is why a lot of people get nervous when it comes to this stage of employment. At the same time, going about it with little preparation can only be disastrous. Here are some ways to help prepare you for a job interview. Larry Polhill.

Pick an outfit ahead of time

There is nothing worse that opening your closet on the day of your interview to find out that you have nothing good to wear. Prepare everything ahead of time. This includes your dress or suit, shoes, accessories, as well as your bag. Make sure everything is clean and free for any foul odor. If you aren’t confident with what you currently have, there’s always the option of borrowing or renting a suit. Just make sure the fit is right. Larry Polhill

Review your resume

A lot of questions interviewers ask are based on information written on your resume. Make sure to review your resume and think of how you can elaborate more on those details. You should also be able to defend any detail you put in your resume in terms of relevance. Larry Polhill.

Know how to answer typical interview questions

There are a lot of resources on the internet regarding common interview questions like “Why should we hire you?”, “Tell us about yourself”, or “What can you bring to our company?” Try writing all these questions down and answer them in detailed yet concise words. Also be prepared for follow up questions regarding your answers. After writing these questions and answers down, try practicing answering in front of a mirror. Larry Polhill

How should applicants explain their greatest strengths?

If you've been in the workforce for quite some time, you must have been asked by interviewers to explain your greatest strengths and how these traits will help you excel in the job you are applying for.  As a career counselor, most of the people I have worked with thought that their answers to this question cost them their dream jobs.  Let me share with you some tips on showcasing your expertise and good traits without going overboard:

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Talk about character-based and skill-based strengths appropriate for the position you are applying for

We know you have a lot of strengths.  And it’s good if you are aware of them.  But for a job interview, you have to choose only the traits that will show interviewers why they should give you the post.  For example, you can share how your being resourceful helped save funds for a project.  Or you can also talk about how clients and superiors commented on your design skills.  The key is to show that your strengths are essential for the specific job you are applying for.

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Say something about your credentials—certifications, degrees, or awards and talk about how these things contributed to what you consider to be your greatest strength

When asked about what you do best, don't be shy to back it up with your accomplishments.  This will show that you are passionate and capable.  While you have to make sure you don't sound like a braggart, don't be too modest about your accomplishments especially if they are already on your resume.  You can also talk about how these achievements have helped you in your current position or latest project.

The interview stage of the application process can be the most unnerving.  To ensure that the question won't catch you off-guard you have to think of your best points beforehand so that you'll be able to talk about them comfortably with the interviewer.  Good luck! Hello! I'm Larry Polhill, an Arizona native and retired career consultant. From time to time, I still offer advice and insights on how jobseekers can land their dream job. For more job-hunting tips, visit this blog.