So, you got yourself an interview, congratulations! To shine during the interview and land that job offer it is important to prepare beforehand. Review these helpful pre-interview tips to help you go into that interview feeling confident.

1. Make Sure You Are Well Versed About the Company You Are Interviewing With
   Often times you will be asked questions about what you know about the company. It is your responsibility to thoroughly research the company you are interviewing with, as you want to show a genuine interest and make sure you understand the business and anticipate the kinds of questions the interviewer may ask. Good research would include:
   1. Reviewing the company’s website (especially the “About Us,” “Team,” and blog sections of the site)
   2. Retain key pieces of information such as the company’s Mission Statement and Vision
   3. Review the company’s social media pages
2. Anticipate Questions You Might Be Asked
   It is important to start thinking about questions you may be asked early on so that you can prepare a polished response.
   1. Be ready for “behavior-based” interview questions. These types of questions are designed to have people describe experiences that they have had that demonstrate behaviors that the company thinks are important for a particular position.
      1. ExampleCan you tell me a time when you made an unpopular decision, displayed a high level of persistence or made a decision under time pressure with limited information?
      2. Be prepared to answer difficult questions such as:
         1. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
         2. What do you know about our company?
         3. What do you consider to be your biggest strength? Biggest weakness?

3. Anticipate the Interviewer’s Concerns and Reservations and Be Prepared To Counter Concerns

1. Be prepared to counter concerns of “I don’t have this” or “I’m not that”
2. Offer what you do have that is similar in exchange and mention your self-propelled drive to learn what you aren’t an expert in

4. Line Up Your Questions For The Interviewer
In most interviews, the interviewer will ask if you have any questions. Answering yes and asking intelligent questions will show that you have done your homework. Ask questions that will help you determine whether this company is a good fit for your career goals and life.  Some examples may include:

1. If you could design the ideal candidate for this position from the ground up, what would he or she be like?
2. What do you think is the best thing about working for XYZ company?
3. What interested you most about taking your position at this company when you were a candidate?
4. What kind of person would you most like to see fill this position?
5. If position is a replacement position – What did the person previously in this position do well and where could he/she have improved
6. Ask about any recent developments in the context of how it’s changed day-to-day for the team.

5. Bring the Necessary Documents

1. Copy of your resume. Double check things such as:
   1. Current position is present tense, previous are past tense
   2. Use a professional email account (not [email protected])
   3. Pay attention to formatting, grammar and punctuation. Details count!
   4. Include all relevant work performed, education, certifications industry memberships etc. Remember, the more tied into your field you are the better odds are that you will be called in for interview.
   5. If submitting a resume online, make sure key words used in the job posting are listed on your resume and highlight your relevant skills and experiences listed on the resume to reflect the specific job you are applying for.

2. A list of references. Make sure to include each person’s title, company and contact information.

3. Relevant work samples such as writings or designs.

6. Social Media Accounts
According to an article in Forbes, 91% of employers search your social media for any red flags.

1. Update your LinkedIn Profile
2. Clean up your Facebook/Instagram and other social media accounts!

7. Mock Interview
Consider doing a practice interview with a family member or friend or even in front of the mirror. Better yet, video your interview – you’ll be surprised at what you see! The more you practice, the more convincing and polished you will be during the interview

There are a great number of ways to prepare for a job interview. By following this advice, you will be better prepared and more confident for your interview. For more tips and helpful articles please visit our resource center here.