I remember when job interviews caused me to feel physically ill to the point of seriously considering a call or email to reschedule the appointment until I could pull myself together. Beyond sweaty palms and a racing heart, I’ve been sick to my stomach thinking about being in the hot seat. I eventually realized, however, that an interview was a two-way conversation between adults. They were trying to figure out if I’d be a good fit for them and I, too, was trying to determine if this was a good match for me and my career goals.

In today's competitive job market, especially if you are seeking a highly sought after remote job, securing a new opportunity often comes down to how well you prepare for the job interview. It can be both exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. To help you navigate this crucial phase of your job search effectively, I've leveraged my broad recruiting experience to outline five key steps to prepare for a job interview, along with a bonus step that will give you a clear advantage. By following these steps, you'll not only boost your confidence but also impress your potential employer. 

Let's dive in!

Before you walk into that interview room or log onto that video call, it's essential to have a deep understanding of the organization you're interviewing with. Start by researching the company's mission, vision, values, and recent achievements. Explore their website, social media, and press releases. Dive into industry news and any recent changes in the company's leadership. Even take a look at what their top competitors are doing. This background knowledge will not only help you form informed responses but also show your potential employer that you're genuinely interested in the organization. Compile your findings into a document you can reference as needed.

To tailor your responses effectively, review every word of the job description. I have seen far too many instances of candidates not being clear on which job they were being interviewed for. Take note of the key skills and qualifications required and ensure you can speak to how your skills and experience align with the role. Prepare specific examples of how your past experiences have equipped you for the job and share these stories with confidence. More on storytelling later….

While interviews often focus on the questions the employer asks you, remember that you're also assessing whether this role and company align with your career goals. Come prepared with thoughtful questions to ask, such as:

• What does success look like in this role and how is it measured?
• What attracted you to the organization and what keeps you here?
• Talk to me about the organization’s commitment to retaining top talent.
• What are the most important short-term and long-term priorities for the team?
• How does this role contribute to the organization's overall goals and objectives?

Asking these questions demonstrates your commitment and interest in the role, as well as your desire to ensure it's a good fit for you.

So let’s chat about storytelling for a brief moment…

As interviewers, we often ask behavioral questions, which prompt you to provide specific examples from your past experiences. Familiarize yourself with the STAR method, which stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. This method helps you structure your responses effectively and showcase your problem-solving skills and achievements. Practice using the STAR method to respond to common behavioral questions.

FYI - This method has also been referred to as SAR or PAR. It’s all the same general idea. Be prepared when the interviewer says, “Tell me about a time when….”

If your interview is in-person, confirm the location and plan your route, taking into account factors like traffic and parking. Always arrive at least 15 minutes early to account for any unforeseen delays. You don’t want to run into the interview room sweaty with your bag falling off your shoulder because you didn’t plan accordingly. It happens more than you know.

On the other end of the spectrum, I remember when a candidate arrived 45 mins early for their interview. Please don’t do that. It potentially disrupts any previous meetings and could suggest you aren’t respectful of the team’s time.

For virtual interviews, ensure you have a stable internet connection, are in a space free from distractions, and are familiar with the video conferencing platform being used. Test your camera, microphone, and lighting to ensure you're presenting yourself professionally. Being well-prepared technologically demonstrates your competence and attention to detail.

During the interview, it's perfectly acceptable to have a notepad and pen at hand. Not only does this help you jot down key points you want to remember, but it also shows your commitment to thorough preparation. It's a simple yet effective tool that can set you apart from other candidates.

I’ll leave you with this…

Remember, successful interview preparation is more than just reading this blog post; it's about feeling confident and in control during your interview. It's about having clarity on your goals and being ready to shine brighter than the other candidates. If you're looking to elevate your job search to the next level, which I know you are, consider booking a Career Clarity Consultation. We’ll equip you with the strategies and confidence to excel in your job interviews and kick i.

Don't let this opportunity slip by. With job interviews around the corner, there's no time to waste. Take action today to secure your success. 

Book your Career Clarity Consultation now to seize the job opportunities you've been working towards.