Landing an interview during the job seeking process is an accomplishment, but it is far from the final step toward landing the role you want. You have come far enough to have the opportunity to put a face to the name on your job application. Yet the preparation to impress your potential future employer is only beginning.
All of the information out there about the organization you wish to work for can fatigue you. Plus, with all of the background you have to share about why you would fit nicely into their company, it can be daunting to figure out exactly what to focus on with your interviewer to highlight your potential. Fortunately, University of Phoenix has you covered. Here are some steps to make sure your pre-interview preparation helps you have a successful interview.
Step #1: Identify Who You’re Meeting
The first step toward should shine a light on what to expect from your sit down with your potential future employer. Knowing exactly who you will be speaking with on the big day is non-negotiable. Make sure you are clear on the names, roles and responsibilities of everyone you will be meeting. This can help you decide what to research before the interview to best prepare yourself.
More specifically, knowing the mission, vision and values of who you may be working for will help you decide which aspects of your professional and academic background are the best match for the position. In turn, you can highlight these traits during the interview.
Also, demonstrating that you understand what is important to the company can empower you to stand out among other potential recruits. You can discover this information by checking the organization’s website and LinkedIn profile. Feel free to take a look at other company employee LinkedIn profiles, too. This can give you a glimpse into the type of skills and background that they typically hire.
Step #2: Decide What to Bring
It is critical not to arrive at an interview empty handed. Before you head to your potential new office, pack a folder with three copies of your resume, one list of professional references and one list of questions to ask your interviewers. Is your interview virtual or over the phone? If so, you can still send the interviewer your materials ahead of time by emailing them the files.
Copies of your resume will brief the interviewer on your professional background. Keep in mind that it’s possible they may not have seen your application before your interview. Recruiters typically contact your references before they are ready to make you an offer so that they can verify your qualifications. Show that you are ready to be hired by giving them your references before they ask.
Having a list of questions can demonstrate that you did your research and want to understand their needs in more detail. This can also show your preparedness and curiosity, which are two significant personality traits recruiters can use to assess whether a new hire will flourish at their company.
Step #3: Arrive on Time
Plan to arrive at an in-person interview between five and ten minutes before it is scheduled to begin. If your interview is remote, be sure to join the conference call or video chat five to ten minutes before the call, too. Arriving at your interview early demonstrates how serious you are about making a first impression to land the job. Your timeliness also shows that you are detail oriented, responsible and reliable.
Step #4: Dress to Impress
Whether in person or online, your interview outfit should be slightly more professional than how you would dress on a day in the office. This can demonstrate that you put effort into making a good impression and that you are taking the matter seriously. Just be sure that whatever you wear is also comfortable so that you can perform well in the interview and focus on the conversation at hand.
About University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix is uniquely equipped to support adult learners and prospective students looking to complete their secondary education on their chosen terms. The University’s mission lies in breaking down the barriers one may face during an education such as full-time employment schedules and family dependents. Flexible online learning modules empower students to complete their coursework without detriment to prior commitments to family, employment or finances.
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