How to Make a Good Impression on Your Next Job Interview

Great Careers Start Here

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Congratulations! You landed the interview. Now comes the hard part. How do you make a really good impression in the interview so you can also land the job?

Follow these 4 tips and bring your confident, knowledgeable self into the career of your dreams.

Do your research: Nothing will impress your future employer more than your knowledge of the company, the job and the industry you want to work in. A cursory glance at their website won’t do the trick. You’ve got to know who they are, what they do, and how long they’ve been doing it. Find out something about the people who work there and follow them on social media. Brush up on the current trends and news affecting your industry. If you want to work in healthcare, you need to know what’s happening. If IT is your passion, you absolutely need to be up-to-date on the latest and the greatest in information technology.

Get some practice: Sure you’re going to be a little nervous sitting in your job interview. That’s not a bad thing; a little bit of nervous energy will keep you sharp and focused. But you don’t want to be so nervous that you stumble and leave a bad impression. So make sure to practice BEFORE the big day. Participate in a mock interview where someone you know “interviews” you, asking you all the tough questions an actual hiring manager might. You’ll discover your strengths, and also your weaknesses so you can sharpen up before your interview.

Hit the basics: From the moment you leave your home for the interview, have a positive attitude. Smile and be pleasant to whomever you meet. That guy who cut you off in the parking lot could very well be someone important in the company. Don’t let your first impression start before you even get your foot in the door. Make certain that you show up on time, well-prepared and dressed appropriately. Answer all the questions put to you as honestly as you can, while still making it clear that you’re qualified for the position.

Be enthusiastic: Do you want the job? If you do you need to make it crystal clear in the interview. Make sure the hiring manager knows that you want to work for the company and that you’re just the person to get the job done!

At Charter College, we’ll help you acquire the skills you need to pursue your dream career. Then our career services professionals will give you advice and assistance on how to find a job in that career. Check out our career-focused programs in business, health care, information technology, veterinary assistance, and the trades.