INTERVIEW SKILLS

 Before the interview:

• Self-preparation

• Research

• Mastering your emotions

• Logistical planning

During the interview:

• Communication

• Introducing yourself

• Presenting your qualifications

• Listening 

• Asking questions 

After the interview: 

• Following up with your interviewer 

• Reflecting on your interview and refining your methods

  1. Self-preparation 

  Much of successful interviewing has to do with being able to align your unique gifts and qualifications with the position you’re applying for. Write down your personal and professional strengths, including the accomplishments you’re most proud of, your values, and your job experience. Reference your resume, cover letter, and the details of any prior projects, if needed.  

  Self-preparation can put your own strengths at the forefront of your mind and make it easier to articulate them in a conversation. 

  2. Research 

  Thorough research into the company you want to work for—including company reviews, its products and services, and its competitors—can help you determine if the career path will be a good fit.  

  Scour everything you can find online about the company and jot down your thoughts on what it might be like to work there, as well as any questions you may have about the company culture and the role. Write down specific ways you can contribute to the company and be a part of its mission, beyond what you may have outlined in a resume or cover letter.

  3. Mastering your emotions 

  Even with thorough preparation, the experience of anticipating a job interview can feel both exciting and stressful. Mastering your emotions can help you stay calm during the interview process, so you can focus on making the best decision for your career.

  To build emotional resilience for your job search, review your self-preparation and company research notes several times. This can give you a confidence boost before the interview.