In this age of work-from-home (or anywhere!), hybrid work, and non-traditional companies that care more about output and culture than coats and ties, it is easy to take on a very relaxed attitude towards job interviews, BUT that non-traditional attitude can cause an interview to go awry.
So if you’re at a loss for what and how to prepare for your next interview, simply use our checklist!
Are you wearing a collared shirt or blouse?
NEVER show up in casual clothes!
Do you have a copy of your CV with you?
If your interview is online, be sure your CV is open and ready for file or screen sharing. If your interview is in-person, be sure your CV is printed and ready to be left with the hiring manager.
Though you probably sent your CV ahead, it doesn’t hurt to have it on hand, should you need it!
Have you done a practice interview?
They say practice makes perfect, and the same goes for job applications! Before attending any job interview, ask a friend to interview you! Ask them to be tough, to tear your CV apart, and to be mean. This will not only prepare you for difficult hiring managers, but it will also mentally prepare you for multiple interview rounds, giving you a kind of script of what to say if and/or when certain questions are asked.
Are you ready with your questions?
Yes, interviews may be about them asking you a series of questions, BUT never forget that you get to ask questions too!
Do research on this company and come up with three to four questions about: your position and its expectations, the company’s operations (whatever was not clear in your research), and the company’s long term plans for themselves (could be growth and expansion).
Just as they need to know if you’re the right fit, you also need to know if they’re the right place for you!
PLUS they’ll be totally impressed by the preparation you did for the interview!
Have you prepared for the worst?
Regardless of your task at hand, it always helps that you prepare for the worst. The same can be said for job interviews.
Ready yourself for rude hiring managers, strange work locations, long wait periods, and–ultimately–being turned down on the spot.
No matter what happens, prepare to smile, thank them for their time, and be gracious as you say goodbye.
At the end of the day, being prepared for a formal job interview will always benefit you. Your attitude and personality can come out in your answers, but your physical appearance and preparedness should be reminiscent of more traditional work settings and requirements. Trust us, the hiring manager will appreciate it!