Nail your next interview!

Written by Emily Fossey

The job market is undergoing a profound transformation.
It’s being shaped by AI, technological breakthroughs,
economic and political shifts. While opportunities exist, there are persistent challenges which is creating a very competitive job market and interview process. Mastering the art of the job interview has never been more critical to help ensure you
stand out in an increasingly competitive landscape. Whether your senior or just starting your career, preparation is key to
boosting your confidence and increasing your chances of success in an interview.

Here are 9 tips to help you nail
your next interview:

2. Do your research

Before your interview, set aside time to research the company. Review not only the company website, but also their social media pages to better understand the company culture. Throughout the interview, try to find opportunities to reference what you learned during your research to show that you have done your homework.

2. Prepare an elevator pitch

By preparing an elevator pitch, you’ll have a succinct and convincing answer to the questions, ‘tell me about yourself.’ As you are creating an elevator pitch, try coming up with a story about what inspired you to get into this line of work. Also, emphasize the relevant skills you have that align with those the company is looking for in a candidate.

3. Study your resume

Study your resume before the interview and know it well. It’s important to be able to speak intelligently about each of your previous positions, the skills you used in those roles and how they transfer to the position for which you’re applying.

4. Study the job description

Prior to your interview, study the job description to fully understand what the company is looking for in a candidate. Write down the specific skills and experiences that the company prefers to see in a candidate and denote which qualifications you have. By reviewing the job description before your interview and aligning it with your own qualifications, you can better navigate the interview and discuss specific examples from your experience that will emphasize those skills.

5. Use the STAR method

Separate yourself from the other candidates by going to the interview prepared with stories that demonstrate your skills and abilities. The best stories tell the interviewer about the challenge you faced, what actions you took to overcome the obstacle and the results you achieved. To do this, practice the STAR method. STAR stands for:

• Situation: Share the situation or challenge you were facing as well as any other relevant details.
• Task: Describe your responsibility in the situation.
• Action: Share how you overcame the challenge.
• Result: Discuss the outcome you achieved by taking those actions.

6. Create a strong first impression

This is key to increasing your chances of a successful interview! First impressions are important. During the first few minutes of your interview, make eye contact, smile confidently and shake the interviewer’s hand firmly. Project an attitude of enthusiasm and energy. Find out what the dress code is so you can match your style to that of the company you’re interviewing with.

7. Be prepared for small talk

Small talk at the beginning of an interview can help you build rapport with the interviewer. As part of your interview preparation, identify topics where you may have a shared interest. Identify any news stories or other recent events that are relevant to the company. For any topic you bring up, be prepared with an interesting thought of your own to contribute.

8. Body language

Be conscious of the body language you’re projecting during your interview. It will communicate to the interviewer whether you’re feeling confident, nervous or uncertain. In order to nail an interview, you want to project positive energy.

9. Be prepared with questions

Be prepared for the interviewer to ask you what questions you have at the end of the interview. Always have two or three questions, whether about the position specifically or about career development, upcoming projects or what makes them a great organization to work for. Asking questions, shows you are interested in the position.

Interviews can be stressful, no matter how qualified for the job you are. Selling yourself with confidence is all about preparation. And practice makes perfect. Taking the above necessary steps to prepare for your interview in advance can increase your confidence before your next interview.

Good luck!

 

2025 Update:

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Looking for your next opportunity? At Logisolve, we have a variety of contract and contract-to-hire roles available across all our capabilities. If you’re interested or know someone who is, please reach out to us at referrals@logisolve.com. We’d love
to connect!

Logisolve offers medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, paid sick leave, and retirement benefits to eligible employees.

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