Receiving a phone call, or even an email from a potential employer is a huge step in the right direction of securing a position within a company. At this stage in the process, your resume has already been reviewed, and now the employer would like to gain additional information about you through a more personal approach. The job interview!
For most, the job interview is the most dreaded stage in the hiring process. It requires the perspective employee to meet with the hiring Manager for the position face to face, and also entails you promoting the job capabilities you listed on your resume. This step requires you to speak clearly and confidently about your work habits, and your intentions if the employer decides to move further in the hiring process with you. Understanding your strengths, and being able to identify your areas of improvement would allow you to breathe easier knowing that the questions you will be presented with are usually tailored for you to speak in regards to your accomplishments or setbacks on previous jobs. Try doing several mock interviews with your current Manager (or coworkers) before the actual interview, and this will allow you to have a better understanding of the interview process. This will also enhance your ability to provide clear and concise answers as you will already have an idea of what questions will be asked.
Remember to review the job qualifications and requirements on the job posting before the interview, as this will provide you with the reason they are searching for a candidate and what skills they expect the employee to have prior to entering their workforce. The most important asset you want to take with you on that interview is a relaxed mindset. You want to appear confident in your capabilities, but not arrogant. At this point, you already have one foot in the door, and now it’s up to you to get the next foot in!
