Tips to Interview Better

Preparing for Your Interview

• Assume there are thousands of candidates who are more qualified (stay hungry).
• Review, revise & finalize your LinkedIn & resume (look for consistency, clarity, and proof-of-performance).
• Practice your elevator pitch (in the mirror, by recording yourself – it’s awkward, but you’ll thank us later).
• Read the job description carefully and find your strengths and areas for improvement based on criteria.
• Create a list, based on job description, of past successes relevant for this role – offer up quantitative and qualitative proof of performance (show them you can do this job by offering up measurable proof).
• Get a friend to prep with you and ‘switch seats’ – play the role of the interviewer by asking questions you’ll have for them (interviews are a two-way street and the ?s you ask will be just as telling as the ?s you answer).
• Understand behavioral interviewing and how to thrive in this interview style.
• Learn about the people interviewing you through LinkedIn, company site/bio, social media.
• Pack for success: 3 copies of your resume, a pen and a notepad or iPad organized in your bag in case you need them.
• Dress for that company’s style: ask the person handling your interview what the company’s dress code is.
• Give yourself enough time to arrive 5 minutes early. You never know what traffic may surprise you on the way there.
• Remember your interview starts with the very first person you meet – the janitor, the receptionist – the first connection will leave the first impression.
• If you are using a recruiter, ask them for guidance (insights based on their company insights).

During Your Interview

• Breathe, Smile and Keep Your Core Strong. What? Let us Explain…

• You need to stay calm, cool and collected.
• Keep your posture straight with a strong core.
• Breathe slowly to keep your mind present.
• Smile — it will keep your nerves at bay and increase engagement.

• Focus on your non-verbal (Are your arms crossed? Are you crouched over? Are you shaking your pencil out of nervousness?) Keep an open posture which suggests confidence and openness to engage in conversation.
• Answer the ? being asked (Sounds stupid simple, but sometimes we’re not listening – we’re preparing to sell ourselves and already have our ‘script’ planned – prepare, but leave your script at the door and listen to listen, then respond….don’t listen to speak).
• Ask questions about the team, the job, the company (competitive advantages, why they chose to join the team, who was in the position previously, etc.)
• Don’t under-qualify or over-qualify yourself. Be True to Who You Are.
• End with a clear statement of interest and appreciation of their time (assuming you want the gig).