Preparing for a job interview can make or break a career launch. It’s a hot topic among students at NetSoft College of Technology and an important part of the curriculum. Every day, questions about strategy, preparation, and winning first impressions fill the halls, highlighting just how critical interview skills have become.
Why Should You Prepare for an Interview in Advance?
Many candidates assume that since an interview is simply a conversation between the employer and the candidate, they don’t need to prepare; it’s just answering basic questions, right?
Wrong. Preparation is essential before an interview. The interview is the most important part of your job search and is usually when the employer decides whether or not to hire you. You should prepare for an interview ahead of time for the following reasons:
1. To Avoid Clumsiness
If you have prepared for the interview in advance, you will have a good idea of what will be discussed and won’t feel rushed or nervous. This will allow you to give calm and complete answers without awkward pauses or disruptions.
2. To Prevent Last-Minute Delays
Preparing in advance can eliminate various factors that could delay you on the day of the interview (a missing button on your shirt, a traffic jam, etc.). Arriving early without rushing will prevent you from feeling flustered before the interview.
3. To Assure Organization and Completeness
Preparing in advance will allow you to ensure that all your documents (e.g., résumé, portfolio, application, etc.) and attire are perfect and presentable.
Tips for Interview Success
Here are a few tips to help you prepare for a successful interview:
1. Documentation
Ensure that you have all the necessary documentation you will need for the interview. Make sure no certificates are missing, you have copies of your résumé, your career advancement portfolio is up to date, and you have a list of references or letters of recommendation.
2. Research
Research the company you are interviewing with. Learn about their mission, major competitors, suppliers, and vendors, and any challenges they may face. Knowing information about the company will not only impress the employer but also help you better sell yourself as an ideal candidate for the position. If possible, learn about the person who will be interviewing you as well.
3. Attire
Check the clothes you will be wearing for the interview. Do they need dry cleaning or ironing? If so, make arrangements to ensure that they are ready the day before the interview. Your clothes should not have any stains and should not be wrinkled.
4. Mock Interview
Studies show that performing a mock interview before an actual interview increases your chances of being hired. Make a list of all the common questions that are asked in an interview and practice your answers for each one. Add any questions you think the interviewer will specifically ask you. For example, if you have a two- year career gap on your résumé, you should be ready to explain it. Have a friend ask you the questions, or practice in front of a mirror. If you practice independently, record your responses so you can critique yourself and improve your answers. Not only will this boost your confidence level, but it will also make sure you do not fumble in your interview.
5. Your Questions
Before the interview, make a list of questions you are going to ask the interviewer. At the end of the interview, you will be given the chance to ask questions. The questions should be related to the job, the company, the work environment, your potential role in the company, the responsibilities of the position, etc. Politely ask if you can ask a few questions at the end if the interviewer doesn’t provide you with an opportunity.
6. Thank You Letter
Sending a thank you letter or email after an interview is an important touch, allowing you to stay in contact with your interviewer. Write a thank you letter in advance and drop it in the mail after your interview — or send an email when you get home.
Follow these tips to give your best performance at your next interview. If you need help preparing for your next interview or are interested in upgrading your technical skills to better market yourself for employment in the IT field, please feel free to contact NetSoft College of Technology, one of the best IT colleges in Toronto. We provide intense Microsoft, Citrix, VMware, Cisco, Linux, and Red Hat courses. We are located in Mississauga near Toronto, Milton, Hamilton, Oakville, and Brampton, and offer courses to students looking to change their careers or improve their professional skills.