7 Tips to Help You Nail Your Next Job Interview

Job interviews can seem intimidating, but they don’t have to be! When you know what to expect and come prepared with good answers to the interview questions you’re likely to encounter, you’ll be able to ace your interview in no time. Here are eight tips that will help you nail your next job interview . . . so that you can focus on doing your best work once you get hired!

1) Know your experience matters

Know your experience matters. Be aware of your qualifications, and don't hesitate to highlight them if they apply to the job at hand. At the same time, be willing to learn new skills and do something outside of your comfort zone. Employers want candidates who will fit well in their culture—and there's no better way than understanding what their work environment is like before you actually interview with them.

2) Dress appropriately

Make sure you are completely up-to-date on current professional attire so that you don't show up wearing the wrong thing. For example, if an interviewer tells you that it's a formal setting and the first piece of advice is to wear a suit, then wear a suit! Knowing these details beforehand can save you from potentially looking silly. In addition, dress in clothes that will be comfortable for sitting during the interview for an extended period of time because there are no second chances for making a bad impression.

3) Come prepared

It’s always best to be prepared with questions and an understanding of the company you are interviewing for. Make sure you review their LinkedIn or website before your interview and dress appropriately. To make a lasting impression, ask thoughtful questions and look them in the eye when they answer them. Be confident in your skills but don’t oversell yourself by saying things that aren’t true.

4) Maintain eye contact, always

Nodding your head doesn't always mean that you agree with the interviewer; it's simply a form of respect. So don't get yourself in trouble for nodding when you don't actually feel that way. The same goes for shaking your head, which means the opposite: agreeing. Maintaining eye contact is another key interview tip to follow, so make sure you're looking them straight in the eye while they're speaking and while you're speaking as well.

5) Smile!

It's been said that if you are not confident when you walk into the interview, then the interviewer won't be confident in you. To help maintain a good attitude, smile and act as if you have already gotten the job offer. Walking into an interview is no time for insecurity! That being said, do your research before going in. It doesn't hurt to know as much about the company and position as possible so be sure to ask questions about its history and how it does business.

6) Don’t pretend you know everything

Every job interview is different, so it’s important to be prepared for anything. Have a list of thoughtful questions ready to ask the hiring manager so you can learn more about their company and culture, and make sure you know what skills and experiences will set you apart from other candidates. Come prepared with plenty of ways to highlight your qualifications and any evidence that demonstrates why you would be a good fit for the role.

7) Remember to breathe

This might seem like common sense, but it's important to make sure you're taking deep breaths during an interview. Not only does this relax your body and clear your mind, but it also makes you more audible. It can be difficult to get a word in edgewise when sitting across from someone interviewing you, so take advantage of being the one asking the questions by pausing after each one.

We hope these tips have helped you, but it is important to remember that every job interview and company will be different. There are, however, universal tips that can help you prepare for an interview such as researching the company and coming prepared with examples of your success in similar positions. Employers want someone who is eager to learn about their business and who has the skillset they are looking for. Subscribe for more tips and trick!