How to Impress an Employer During a Job Interview

Job interviews can be incredibly stressful. Often, they represent the final step of the hiring process. In some instances, having a good interview can mean the difference between getting a job offer and heading back to the job market. While each situation may be different, there are certain steps candidates can take to ensure they give themselves every chance of impressing their prospective employer heading into an interview. Here are a few key concepts to keep in mind if you have a job interview on the horizon:

Conduct Thorough Research

The better you understand what your employer is looking for, the better your chances are of pulling off a successful interview. Of course, researching a large company can be a difficult task. You may or may not benefit from reviewing specific products like a new type 3D cell culture, for example. However, knowing key facts about the company can help you form answers that align with your prospective employer’s expectations.

Ask Good Questions

Most professionals enter an interview with a focus on answering questions well. However, asking good questions can leave a lasting impression on your future bosses. Managers want to hire professionals who are engaged and excited about the position. Asking smart questions about your potential role and the way a company operates will show that you’ve given serious thought about the job.

Treat Everyone with Respect

In many instances, managers seek out the opinion of their employees when they make hiring decisions. During any given visit to a company’s HQ for an interview, a candidate may speak with four, five, or even more employees that don’t have a direct say in the hiring process. Yet, how you treat these people before, during, and after your interview can have a big impact on how a manager views your performance. It may be a small thing to treat everyone around you with respect and courtesy, but it can go a long way all the same.

Be Open & Honest

Everyone wants to put their best foot forward during an interview. This is understandable. Yet, stretching the truth or outright lying during the interview process is a huge mistake that could cost you significantly in the long run. Rather than trying to put on a false front, be open and honest with your prospective employer about your career development, as well as anything you’ve struggled with in the past. Everyone makes mistakes, and good employers won’t punish you for telling them the truth. Ultimately, just being yourself is the best way to make a great impression with a business leader.

Justin Weinger

A married father of three, Justin Weinger works in private equity as a Corporate Finance Manager, he is also an avid blogger and personal finance enthusiast with a strong history of working in the automotive and publishing industry.