Interview Tips That Help You Lead with Your Best Foot Forward

A job interview is a critical part of the hiring process, but it’s also a nerve-wracking experience for most candidates. After all, you only have one chance to make a stellar impression. Fortunately, by using the right strategy, you can lead with your best foot forward.

Here are some interview tips to get you headed in the right direction.

Research the Company and Role

Before your interview, spend some time researching the company and the role you’re hoping to land. This will give you a better understanding of the company’s culture, values, and position. In turn, you’ll be able to target your interview answers to the organization, making it easier to demonstrate how what you bring to the table aligns with the hiring manager’s priorities.

Practice Your Answers

Practicing your answers to common interview questions helps you feel more comfortable with your responses, making it easier to deliver them seamlessly. Plus, it commits critical details to memory, which could prevent you from forgetting them during the meeting. By practicing in front of a mirror, on camera, or with a friend or family member, you can also review your answers or get feedback, allowing you to further improve your delivery.

Be on Time

Punctuality is essential in an interview. Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes early to the interview location, giving you time to navigate parking and facility entry procedures or any other steps you need to take before the meeting.

If you’re running late, make sure to call ahead and let the interviewer know. While being late may still work against you, speaking with the hiring manager as soon as possible limits the impact of this misstep and could help ensure you remain in contention.

Be Confident

Confidence is key in an interview. Make sure to maintain eye contact, speak clearly, and use confident body language. Show your excitement for the role and the company, and have enthusiasm about your skills and experience. Smile when you speak and when the hiring manager talks, nodding at times to show you’re engaged. Those simple actions make a stronger impression, and they could make all of the difference.

Ask Questions

Asking questions shows that you’re interested in the role and the company. Before your interview, prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer about the company’s culture, its values, the nuances of the job, and any expectations for the position. This will give you a better understanding of the role and help you determine if it’s the right fit for you, all while highlighting your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Follow Up

After the interview, send a thank-you note to the hiring manager to express your appreciation. While it’s a seemingly small gesture, it can make a big impression and show that you’re professional and courteous. Plus, it shows you’re continuing interest in the position, letting the hiring manager know you’re engaged in the process. That also works in your favor, making this extra effort highly worthwhile.

Ultimately, the tips above can help you put your best foot forward during an interview, increasing the odds that you make a positive impression and land the role. If you’d like to learn more about how to interview successfully or are currently searching for new job opportunities, Hamilton-Ryker wants to hear from you. Check out our job listings or contact one of our recruiters today.