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6 Easy and Efficient Ways to Ace Your Next Interview
July 26, 2023
The job market is seemingly confusing and uncertain in its current state. After overhiring throughout 2021-2022, many companies are backpedaling, resulting in numerous layoffs. However, the job market remains strong. Regardless of what is happening in the market, companies are still hiring, which means people are still interviewing.
On average, employers receive 250 applications per job, so making it to the first interview round can be a challenge, but once there, it is imperative to stand out from the rest. Hurdles like not knowing who the competition is or their strengths make interviewing all the more challenging and competitive. As experts in talent acquisition, we share our insights on how to effectively and successfully ace an interview.
Knowledge is Power
Knowledge of your skills and job function is a no-brainer, but knowing about the company, the industry, and competitors will set you apart from the sea of candidates.
When researching the company, look beyond the company’s website (but don’t skip this step). Run a Google search of the company and click on the “news” tab to read about current events happening with the organization. The same research applies to the industry and competitors of the company. Equipped with this information, your interest in the job and industry will shine through during an interview leaving a positive impression on the hiring manager.
Find Your Inner Unicorn
Although mythical, “unicorn” is typically used to describe someone or something as unique or rare. Finding what makes you unique will help you stand out from the competition. Whether it be a personality trait, a particular skill, or an interesting talent, make sure you sell this to the interviewer.
Of course, your uniqueness needs to apply to the job or company. Abilities such as public speaking, engineering a new design, or even something as simple as being a master at Excel can be the difference between getting a job offer or being rejected. Always back up your uniqueness with examples to help illustrate the value behind your gift.
Get Ready for Impact
Making an impact on an organization is inevitable. Impacts can range from micro to macro, but they are essential to note and refer to as you interview with various organizations.
Hiring managers want to know what you will bring to the table. By showcasing your prior impacts, you illustrate your value to future companies. Impacts such as launching initiatives to strengthen the firm’s vision, completing projects pertinent to the company’s bottom line, or improving business are all positive impacts that can help you land your next job.
Authentic and Engaging Questions
Practically every hiring manager will give their candidates an opportunity to ask questions toward the end of an interview. The biggest mistake anyone can make is not asking questions, reflecting disinterest, disengagement, or lack of comprehension overall. Another mistake is to ask only canned or obvious questions, such as what the company does or who the competitors are, as a Google search can answer these.
Instead, consider what’s important to you in the job and company and start digging. If culture is important, ask questions about professional development opportunities, the hiring manager’s management style, how the leaders relay feedback, and what initiatives the company takes on social issues (think DEI).
Many Thanks
Following up with the hiring manager after an interview is equally important as the interview itself. Since the introduction of email, hiring managers have come to expect a follow-up from candidates; not doing so can cost you the job.
Follow-up emails should be written and sent within 24 hours of the interview. When composing your email, include the job information, your gratitude, why you are interested in the opportunity, and why you are the best choice for the role. Reference the information you gathered from the interview to highlight your understanding of the role and attentiveness. Keep your email concise yet engaging.
Work with a Partner
Interviewing is stressful; between identifying opportunities, researching, and mentally preparing, it becomes taxing. With the help of a partner such as a talent acquisition specialist, you can reduce your stress and feel confident when interviewing.
At Innova, our talent acquisition specialists are well-versed in the tech industry and highly knowledgeable about each client they represent. This thorough comprehension allows them to prepare their candidates for interviews effectively. Contact Innova today if you are seeking a partner to assist you in your IT job search.
