5 Smart Interview Strategies for Job Candidates

You’ve managed a successful career and earned plenty of accolades along the way. But job interviews still make you nervous. You’re not alone. Whether you have five or 30 years of experience, interviews are stressful situations for most job candidates, no matter how high up on they corporate ladder they are. But the reality is, if you want the job, interviews (and sometimes many rounds of them) are a process you’ll have to endure.

That said, as one of Houston’s most experienced job agencies, Murray Resources knows there are some steps you can take so you’re more comfortable during interviews and perform better as a result. Here’s a look at 5 of them:

1. Be confident; you already got an interview.

It’s normal to be nervous. There’s a lot at stake. However, keep in mind you’ve already passed an important first milestone – getting the interview. Not all candidates are called in for one. So when you are, there’s a reason.

2. Memorize information about the company.

The more you know about the company, the more confident you’ll feel walking into the interview. Read about and memorize a few key facts about the company so you can weave those details into your interview answers and questions. You might say something like, “I noticed on your website your company is acquiring XYZ firm. Can you tell me how that would impact this role?”

3. Know your audience.

Before the interview, know the format (e.g., is it a panel interview or a one-on-one?), the players, and the position details. Then create a list of questions you’ll likely be asked and practice your answers. Also, consider any weaknesses or gaps in your experience and how you’ll address them with interviewers.

4. Sell your accomplishments.

When you’re in an interview, don’t simply tell the interviewer about your accomplishments. Sell them. That means being able to quantify specific accomplishments, as well as talk about the impact they had on the overall company bottom line.

5. Re-frame any negatives into positives.

Even when an interviewer asks you about a skill you don’t have, or a weakness, turn the negative into a positive. For instance, when talking about an area where you fell short, make sure you talk about what you learned from the experience and how you were able to apply that knowledge at work. Or, if a particular project got off track, explain the corrective action you took and the end result you were able to achieve.

In addition, a few other tips to keep in mind for interview day success:

  • Keep your answers concise and on target.
  • Be mindful of your body language.
  • Don’t crack jokes.
  • Smile and be engaging.
  • Ask about next steps before leaving.
  • Follow up with a thank you note to those you interviewed with.

If you’d like more help acing interviews and finding your next job, turn to the experts at Murray Resources.

As one of Houston’s most experienced job agencies, we can connect you with top employers in the city, as well as rewarding jobs in a variety of fields. Contact us today to learn more.