Steps to Prepare for an Interview

Congratulations! You got an interview! Or at least you're preparing to.

After all of your time and effort sending out resumes and applying to different jobs, guess what... your work is not done. Scoring that interview is still just the beginning.

Preparing yourself before meeting an employer is highly essential in order to raise your chances of getting the job. Go through these important steps, and you'll be ready for a great interview.

1. Do in-depth research on the company. Google the firm. Find out their reputation. See who they're partnered with. You want to see how you would fit with them to be better prepared. Employers can very much sense if you honestly did your homework.
2. Think and practice your responses, so that you can answer questions with ease. Review common interview questions here to practice beforehand.
3. Prepare your own questions to ask at the end of the interview. This is why researching is vital. You would have better, genuine questions to ask when you understand what the firm is all about. Click here to review some good questions to ask.


4. Be sure you know your directions and estimate time. Print out a map the day before, so you don't rush at last minute. Accurately estimate how long it will take to get there. Be 5-10 minutes early.

   It's okay to over-estimate on time. You never want to risk being late. If the firm is 20 minutes away, then leave 30-40 minutes prior to your appointment. Consider all aspects, including possible traffic during certain times and even how far the parking lot is.

   However, DO NOT be outrageously early! Remember, managers are busy! You have an appointment for a reason. Arriving over 30 minutes early will simply make you look desperate.

5. Have your resume and references on hand. Print out 3-4 copies of each, and carry them in a nice folder. Even if you sent your resume online, you may be interviewed by more than one manager, so having copies will make you look prepared. Click here to create a reference page.
   
   
6. Dress the part! Know the appropriate attire to wear. Some companies may not require a suit, but dress to fit the culture of the firm and the level of the job you're going for.

Review other methods to prepare for an interview.

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