Prior to interviewing, it’s common for people to scour the internet for interview tips, tricks, and potential questions. Many sources repeat the same information that’s likely standard knowledge if you have interviewed before.
We at All Trades Staffing Services work with employees to try to match them with employers that can recognize and value their skills and assets, with potential for long term employment. Here are some uncommon interview tips that will help you land the job.
1. Google Yourself
As social media has become increasingly more popular in the last decade, many employers will look up their interviewee on the internet to see what comes up. Many people don’t tend to think about what information gets leaked onto the internet and consider their personal accounts as separate from their professional life. Social media posts can be very revealing to employers, though, of what kind of employee the person is.
It is wise to do a quick Google search of yourself to see what comes up prior to the interview. Ensure that it is nothing that would be embarrassing if it came up in an interview. See if you can clear any unprofessional content that is public. Generally it’s wise to keep any personal accounts private so you can monitor who sees it.
2. Use the Job Description
Though there are some standard questions that employers will ask when interviewing, a helpful interview tip for more preparedness is looking at the job description to anticipate questions. Look at what specific skills, certifications, or experience they are looking for and use it to better prepare answers.
If a job lists a particular technical skill or ability they are looking for, consider potential questions they may ask about it or ways you can incorporate it into your answers. For instance, if they want someone who has done project management, think of tangible examples of when you have successfully managed a project.
3. Wear a “Power Outfit”
Though it’s customary to dress professionally for interviews, ensure your clothes are comfortable that you feel confident wearing. If you force yourself into shoes that aren’t broken in or a tight pencil skirt, you will likely be distracted and uncomfortable during the interview, causing you to come across as nervous or fidgety.
An interview tip is to pick something out that is tried and true – essentially your “power outfit” – so you can both be professional and confident. If you wear something you feel good in, then you will be more confident and relaxed, which interviewers like to see.
4. Match the Interviewer’s Energy
Psychologically, people will be more open and respond well when they are being mirrored. Mirroring can help establish social bonds, demonstrating empathy, attentiveness, and trust. This can be a helpful interview tip for creating a connection with the interviewer.
This means that if your interviewer is being bubbly and engaging, or stoic and professional, you should try to imitate their energy. Though you definitely shouldn’t fully copy the employer, if you are doing some subtle mirroring, they will tend to respond better to you.
5. Ask Them Unique Questions
Usually, employers will offer time at the end for you to ask them questions. There are some popular go-to questions, like, “How would you describe the company’s culture?” and “What qualities do you look for in ideal candidates for this position?” But an interview tip in order to stand out – and get a better sense of the company – is to try to ask more detailed questions.
For example, rather than asking, “How long have you been at this company?” try something more personalized, such as, “What has been your favorite part of working for this company?” or “What’s a time that you saw [a certain company value] in action?”
6. Prepare Work-Specific Answers
A temptation during interviews is to be vague in your responses. When asked what your strengths are, you should highlight work-specific replies. Most interviewees will claim to be hard workers or that they can work well under pressure, but giving more specific answers is an interview tip that will help you stand out.
If you are interviewing for a writing position, mention how one of your strengths is your creativity and ability to think outside the box. If a customer service job, highlight your ability to make people feel at ease around you and how you anticipate needs easily.
7. Ask About Growth Opportunities
Employers like to hear that you are not just interested in the position for the money or as a transitional gig. If you make a point to ask after opportunities for growth once hired, this demonstrates commitment to self-improvement and loyalty to the company. Though make sure that if you are hired, you actually follow through on your interest. It’s unwise to be falsely eager about something occupationally.
All Trades Staffing Services
At All Trades, we work with both employees and employers, helping both sides find a good match that is satisfactory to both parties. If you are in search of a job, reach out and let us know how we can help you.
