- Get Familiar With The Company
It is always recommended to get familiar with companies before you start working with them. For starters, you do not want to end up in a position where you hate where you work. And if nothing else, do a quick Google search about the company and the position you aspire to fill. Is there any current news you should be aware of that might influence your motivation to work at the company or in the sector? Find more information about life sciences from Orion.
Another good way to learn more about a business is to check out their current projects. What are they doing and what are they trying to achieve? More importantly, is the company stable regarding its finances, and does it take ample care of employees?
As for finding more information about the job itself, focus on details that can help you prepare for the interview. Because when you know more about what is required of you, it is much easier to paint a picture of how you can fit in. If possible, get in touch with employees that used to fill the position and get their view on things. From there, you can connect your achievements with the job requirements, which you can then use as talking points during the interview.
- Prepare Some Good Stories
You probably already know this, but in order for an interview to be successful, you have to be able to sell yourself. In other words, you have to convince the interviewer you have the skills and knowledge they need at the company. And a good way to do this is by preparing stories which showcase your experience.
Remember that a good story provides you with the opportunity to show personality while being more engaging. And what about pointing out your communication skills? You should never underestimate the power of a good story. Especially when it puts you in a good light.
Take note of the job description and combine it with the research you do. From this, you should get a good idea of what skills your potential employer will be looking for. So, on that note, think about your achievements and how they are relevant to your current interview.
- Asking Questions Is A Good Thing
If you had other job interviews, you are probably aware that interviewers typically ask whether you have any questions. And while your answer does not dictate how the interview ends, the right answer holds a lot of power. For example, when you answer no, you likely disappoint the interviewer because you do not sound interested enough. But when you answer yes, it proves you take this opportunity seriously. And it gives you the chance to share some of the research you did.
Always prepare a few questions you can ask the interviewer. However, not all these questions should be about the potential benefits you might receive. Instead, let these questions focus on understanding the company better.
- Pay Attention To What You Wear
It does sound somewhat shallow, but what you wear can influence the interview. For instance, if you show up under-dressed, the interviewer could take it as a sign of disrespect. Thus, always dress one level higher than what you think the interview requires. Remember, if you want to sell your skills, you have to look confident and sharp.
This does not mean you should spend a fortune on clothes for the interview. And if you are not sure about how to dress, call the recruiter and get more details from him/her. Once you have the right outfit, make sure it is ready the night before the interview. You don’t want anything to go wrong at the last minute.
- Remember Those Important Documents
Even though your potential employer already has a copy of your resume, it never hurts to bring a copy for them and for you. The same goes for your reference list and any other important documentation, such as a work portfolio containing proof of your skills and achievements.
In addition to boosting your chances of acing the interview, these documents can help to refresh your memory and give you that extra confidence you need.
- Always Show Up On Time
The best time to arrive at an interview is 10 to 15 minutes early. Arriving too early could cause some confusion with the interviewer, which can lead to an uncomfortable moment. And arriving too late is definitely not going to help your odds. Know where you have to be long before the interview, and if you run late, at least call and explain your situation.
