How to Prepare for a Job Interview

Before applying and interviewing for your dream job, make sure you have gone over the following interview tips:

Job Interview Tip #1: Update your Resume

Submitting an outdated resume will almost always eliminate you as a possible candidate. Below is a list of the top things to look out for when updating your resume.

1. Work Experience: If your last job was listed in 2005, most employers would assume you have been out of work for the past three years.




2. References: If an employer attempts to call an individual on your reference list and that individual’s number is not accurate, or that individual is unaware they are listed as a reference, you will leave a poor impression with employers.




3. Education: It is okay if you are in school, just specify when you expect to graduate. Further, if you have taken a break from school, clearly state that as well.

Job Interview Tip #2: Research the Company

You want to know more about the company than any other candidate, which requires a little extra effort on your part. Visit the company website and search engines to find:

1. Recent and past business dealings




2. Products and services




3. Company successes and failures




4. Changes in management and/or ownership




5. Their mission and vision




6. Their short term and long term goals




7. Who their customers are




8. Who their major competitors are

Job Interview Tip #3: Prepare for Job Interview Questions

The more you practice the more comfortable you will feel. Not only should you look into popular interview questions, but you should practice them in front of a mirror as well. Pay close attention to facial expressions and body language as they speak much louder than words.

Job Interview Tip #4: Dress Properly

Make sure you dress for success. Within the first ten seconds of meeting an employer, you will have already made an impression with an employer. How do you want them to view you? I suggest a nice pair of pants, a dress shirt and a tie, and if appropriate, a suit jacket.

Job Interview Tip #5: Arrive Early

Be sure to arrive 10-15 minutes early. Not only does it make a good impression but it gives you the ability to analyze the office. Pay close attention to:

1. Organization: Does the office, or waiting room, seem clean and organized or messy and stressful?




2. Employee Expressions: Do the employees seem happy, stressed, angry, upset?




3. Promptness: How long does it take before you are noticed?




4. Friendliness: How does the individual who notices you greet you? Do they offer you a place to site? Something to drink? When an employee walks by do they acknowledge you?




5. Professionalism: When you are greeted, does the greeter shake your hand? Approach you or yell for you to have a seat? Is the greeter chewing gum?




6. Effort: How is the office, or waiting room, organized and decorated?

Job Interview Tip #6: Bring a Notepad

During an interview, information is equally exchanged. The employer will have questions for you and you will have questions for the employer. Because you don’t want to interrupt the employer, having a notepad will enable you to write down important information and questions you may have.

For more of my job search, job interview and career articles, visit my blog.