So you’ve applied for jobs since…well since you needed a new job. Canvassed job listings on LinkedIn, screenshot job postings on Twitter and bookmarked every single link from the thirteen or so WhatsApp groups you are in.
Just when you are feeling down and out you get a notification. You take a look at your email. It starts with ‘Dear Sir/Madam, you’ve been shortlisted for an interview at…’. I know that’s right! The excitement from getting that callback is probably only second to finding out that mangoes are in season. Again.
Congratulations, you’ve got an interview to ace. And ace it you shall with these easy 5 steps that candidates usually overlook.
Preparing for an interview can get you feeling anxious and downright confused enough to be depressed. We are here to tell you, first and foremost, that you have absolutely got this. If they did not think you were capable you would not have gotten the email/text message or phone call. However, you are not the only candidate interviewing for the role. This means you want and need to stand out of the bunch.
So without further ado, here are 5 easy steps for preparing for that job interview.
1. Get a copy of the job posting/job description and peruse.
Read through the company’s job ad. Get abreast with the role and what it entails. Read and research on it and come up with appropriate ways to even better the job’s expectations of you. And then re-read the job description again.
2. Create your best response to “so tell me about yourself.”
Because they always ask that question. It is best to highlight not only your capabilities but a little but about your personal aspirations and also your hobbies (especially if they are team-building ones). This will not only inspire the panel but also mark you up for other skills.
3. Research the company.
We cannot say this hard enough. Google is your friend. LinkedIn is your friend. The company website is your friend. If it is a network link then do the needful by asking whomever for info on the company. You want to know and chew anything and everything dito dito on the company you are looking to work for.
4. Prepare questions you will ask during the interview.
Because an interview is not only about you being a good fit for your prospective employers also whether they are a good fit for you.
5. Prepare your interview day checklist ahead of the interview day.
Get your clothes, copies of your resume and transcripts and school certificate handy. It’s the day of your interview. You cannot afford to be slacking.
Now go and own and wow that interview panel.
