How to Succeed in a Job Interview? We Share Proven Strategies for Preparation in the 2024 Selection Process

What do you imagine when someone mentions a job interview? Does your heart rate increase, or do you feel something else? Many applicants still associate job interviews for their dream positions with immense stress. It’s not just a formal step in the selection process but a crucial moment when you mutually decide whether the collaboration between you and the company will work. The expectations of a future employer meet your skills. Will you succeed or not? Don’t worry; EDU Effective has your back. This article offers proven strategies, tips, and tricks to ace a job interview.

“Better to come prepared than be surprised.”

Preparing for an interview is a test. You are testing how well the chemistry and understanding will work between you. How you feel during the interview will tell you if this company is the right fit for you. As statistics from the Glassdoor survey show, up to 70% of applicants prioritize social and company culture when choosing a job. Understanding the company you are applying to is crucial.

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Have you heard this question in an interview before?

The question of why we should hire you for position XY may scare you at first. But don’t worry; you can respond with a calm mind. I recently read on LinkedIn that an applicant asked the recruiter the same question but from the applicant’s perspective. Why should I work for company XYZ? Ah, we turned it around 180 degrees. But now, seriously. Let’s look at what you should nail before and during the interview.

Get thoroughly acquainted with the company you are interviewing for = what is the company’s mission and vision? What products do they offer? Their history? Invest time in understanding the company and the role you are applying for. As they say, those who are prepared are not surprised.

Questions you will likely encounter in the interview = tricky questions include asking about your strengths and weaknesses or examples of your achievements. Here’s how to prepare for these questions:

• Carefully read the job description and identify the required skills and experiences.
• Consider how your previous roles and projects align with the position’s requirements.
• Reflect on past challenges, successes, and failures and the lessons and experiences you can use in the new role.
• When answering questions, use the STAR method, which stands for situation, task, action, and result.
• Prepare specific examples illustrating your key competencies and achievements.

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You can make a first impression only once = yes, how you will appear on the first impression can determine the outcome of your interview. Choose appropriate clothing that matches the company culture, and be friendly and optimistic. You can’t go wrong with a smile. Arrive early and behave friendly even at the entrance to the building. You never know who’s watching. Even a receptionist or a concierge might be part of your interview, so enter with a smile and say hello.

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One gesture speaks more than 10 words = yes, we’re talking about non-verbal communication. What to watch out for during the interview? Maintain eye contact, don’t forget to shake hands – but be cautious about the grip (nobody likes a limp fish, or when you try to crush someone’s hand, try to find the golden middle ground), sit upright, and try to limit nervous ticks like tapping your feet, etc.

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Actively listen, and don’t be afraid to ask = you must be genuinely engaged in the interview. Prepare a series of questions for the potential employer – show that you have not neglected preparation and are genuinely interested in the position. If you don’t understand something, ask for further clarification.

• Keep a cool head and act confidently = you might not avoid stress altogether, but don’t let your mind falter. There are relaxation techniques and visualizations that can help you.
• Deep breathing or meditation. Before the interview, take time for relaxing breathing exercises to help calm your mind.
• Positive visualization. Imagine that the interview goes smoothly and successfully. Visualize yourself confidently answering questions and leaving a positive first impression on the company representative or recruiter.
• Answer with a cool head. Practice answering questions calmly and confidently. Focus on clear and concise answers.

Show what you’re made of = Prepare specific examples from your experience that illustrate your contribution to the team or project. Focus on the results and impact of your work.

Saying thank you has its meaning = You reached the end of the interview. Don’t forget to thank you for the opportunity to meet and confirm your interest in the position. And add something in a line that you look forward to the next steps.

Authenticity wins.

Remember that the employee selection process is a mutual decision. Be authentic and show not only your skills but also your personality. Your uniqueness and approach can be what sets you apart from other applicants.

15 minutes changes everything – Study at EDU Effective

At EDU Effective, we are pioneers in providing flexible – 100% online, modern employee education. Our study programs cover theory, practical skills, and current industry trends. We use the microlearning method – studying takes 15 minutes a day. You can easily integrate “study time for yourself” into a busy work schedule.

In addition to MBA  specializations, LLM, MSc, and MPA, we also have a wide range of flexi(ble) credentials, including courses focused on interview preparation.

Do you have any questions about studying at EDU Effective? Write to us or give us a call. Also, check out the frequently asked questions!

Sources:

https://www.glassdoor.com/blog/mission-culture-survey/  

https://zety.com/blog/hr-statistics?fbclid=IwAR2kKYg5bGCVQ4cmagRB46_kC8W74VUANhGJg-TRJ3ZLzXag3_ypFGTQt2I#job-interview-statistics 

https://www.clevry.com/en/blog/recruitment-stats-2024/?fbclid=IwAR32ddFERzNKOCmEbb1e5YBlN5DOJBqSpzkO-1FHwjtLsjkkkzdZN0vTIt8