Preparing for a Job Interview: Secrets from an Insider

Ever had one of those job interviews where you walk into a huge conference room, take a seat, and suddenly feel like you're on the hot seat of a game show? You know, where you're staring across the table at the hiring manager or a whole team, and you could almost swear the air conditioner is broken. The questions fly at you like a pro pitcher's fastball, and as you're trying to shine, BAM! - your mind goes blank. You scramble to keep your cool, but those sweaty palms may have ratted you out.

Been there? Yeah, me too. And if this rings even the faintest bell, I've got some tips that might just turn your next interview from nerve-wracking to a walk in the park. Here's how:

Tip #1: Company Stalking

Get on their website, read up on their blog, and get a good grasp on what they're all about:

• Services/products they offer
• Core values
• Major customers and competitors
• Recent happenings and updates
• What problems they’re solving (or facing)

Remember, it's not just you trying to find the right fit, they also have to be the right fit for you!

Tip #2: It's Who You Know

Networking can be a hidden goldmine. Look through your LinkedIn connections and see if anyone you know has worked with the company. Ask about their experiences, the company culture, and even the interview process. Don't, however, ask them what questions the interviewer asked - an experienced Recruiter/Hiring Manager can tell when a candidate has been prepped.

But asking about their experience can give you some invaluable insights:

• Understand the Environment: Learn the day-to-day life within the company.
• Get the Inside Scoop: Know about the open position from someone who’s been there.
  
  

Tip #3.  Sweat the Small Stuff

The day of the interview isn't just about the big things; little details matter too:

• Directions: Map out your route, and consider traffic or public transportation if needed.
• Parking & ID: Know where to park and have your ID ready.
• Dress Right: Wear something comfortable but professional, and bring copies of your resume.
• Online Interviews: Make sure the link opens on your computer, test your audio and visual, and get a glass of your preferred sparkling water (big fan of topo chico, myself)
  

Tip #4.  Know Your Role

Really understanding the role you're applying for will set you apart:

• Position Clarity: Confirm the specifics of the role with your contact, so there are no surprises.
• Research Industry Trends: What's new in the field? Being current can impress.
• Unfamiliar? Look in on industry topics, and correlate your interests to the field (i.e. if it's a Data role, show examples of the analytical sides of your previous roles, etc)
  

Tip #5.  Show 'Em What You Got

Connect your past experiences with the responsibilities in the job description:

• Relate Your Skills: Write down real examples that match the responsibilities.
• Lack Something? No Sweat: Show how you'll learn or adapt to new requirements. Adaptability may be the #1 needed soft skill in the modern workplace. Show examples of your adaptations and you'll get bonus points for how you communicated with your team or direct leaders during that time.
  
  

Tip #6: Practice, Practice, Practice

Get a friend to throw questions at you and take their feedback seriously. Watch those "ums" and "uhs", and your body language. There's nothing like a good mock interview:

• Simulate the Experience: Have a friend grill you with questions.
• Watch Your Language: Literally! Look for filler words, and work on posture and eye contact.
• Don't OVER practice: There is a fine line between preparation and reading a script. We want you to be yourself, not a robot 🤖 Also, don't literally read a script - that never looks good.

Tip #7: Turn the Tables

Asking questions shows interest and preparation. Have 3 or 4 questions ready to ask them. It'll show you've done your homework.

• Think Ahead: What do you really want to know about them? Craft thoughtful questions.
• Show Your Interest: Asking about company goals or team dynamics can set you apart.
• Ask Questions Behind Questions: If you want to know what the culture is like, maybe ask: "What's your favorite part about working here?" Or maybe, if you want to know the leadership style of the Hiring Manager, you'd ask: "How will I know I'm successful in this role?"
• HAVE FUN: I know this seems ridiculous at a time like this, but your "fun self" is closer to your true self. If you're like me, you want to work at a company where you can show up and be yourself on Day 1. If you have fun throughout the interview and you get selected, you will know that you were picked not for the polished version of yourself - but rather for who you truly are!

Tip #8: Say Thanks!

Gratitude goes a long way. Get a business card for sending a thank you email, or bring a blank thank you card with you. Keep it simple, but meaningful.

Get Contact Info: Make sure you know how to follow up.
Express Genuine Thanks: Thank whomever for the opportunity to get connected, express how you're excited by the opportunity, and that you really appreciate their time. But don't just say it, mean it.

These elaborated points can make the whole difference in your preparation, performance, and post-interview process. Investing time and energy into these aspects might seem daunting at first, but trust me, it'll pay off when you walk out of that interview feeling like you nailed it.

Job interviews can be a real nail-biter. That's okay. As someone who's worked with plenty of candidates, I can tell you that the best antidote for those nerves is being prepared. Whether you're just starting your career or you've been around the block, putting in the effort beforehand can make all the difference. You’ll walk out of that interview with a smile, knowing you gave it your all.