Before going on a job interview, there are some important steps you should take to prepare. Here are some of the most important steps. For more information, and more tips, visit https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/job-interview-tips-how-to-make-a-great-impression.
Be dressed for success - Depending on the type of job, make sure you are dressed appropriately, and that you look presentable.
Manners - Make sure you use good body language. During the interview, make sure you are making eye contact with the interviewer. When you go on your interview, you do not know who is taking notes on you, so make sure you are nice and professional to everyone you come across, and at all times when you are on the premises of the workplace. If the interview is virtual, make sure you do the interview in an area with a background that is appropriate and professional for the job you are interviewing for. Do not do the interview slouching or lying down, as this is not professional. Make sure you are sitting up, preferably at a table or a desk. Also make sure that the lighting is appropriate, so the camera can clearly see your face. The employer wants to see you, so you should not be in a dark room. Make sure you are able to conduct the interview in a quiet setting with no distractions. If necessary, tell your family members where you are conducting the interview, and for how long you expect it to last, so they do not bother you during that time. Even if the interview is virtual, make sure you are dressed appropriately.
Anticipate the questions - Many job interviews involve similar questions, so make sure you feel comfortable answering the most common ones. In addition, do as much research as you can on the position you are interviewing for, since you may be asked more specific questions about the position, and the employer will be able to tell if you did your research.
Practice with a friend - Before the interview, it may be a good idea to do a mock interview with a friend. Of course, you are not going to be able to predict and practice every question you will be asked during the real interview, but answering common questions and similar questions will help you gain confidence for the real interview. Saying your answers outloud will help you gain confidence in your answers, which will help you during the real interview. Even if none of the questions are exactly the same, answering similar questions will give you confidence knowing what you want to say to the interviewer.
Relax before the interview - Calm down, take a deep breath. There is no need to be nervous for your job interview. All you can do is prepare the best you can. If the employer feels you are a good fit for the job, you likely will receive it. If the employer does not feel you are a good fit for the job, you will not get the job, and that is out of your control.
Have a list of references ready - Some employers ask you for references from people you know after the interview. Have a list ready for the employer so you can tackle this requirement quickly. Please note that references cannot come from anyone who is related to you. Employers would prefer more professional connections, such as former employers, or teachers.
Ask questions - If you have questions about the job, ask them during the interview. Asking questions will show interest, and the employer will know you are seriously considering working there. If you do not ask questions, it may appear as if you are not interested, and the employer wants to chose someone who is interested and passionate about working for them. Also, since you are considering the job, you want to find out as much as possible about it, since you will want to know what it is like to work there. Asking questions may also help you decide that the job is not for you, and will prevent you from potentially ending up at a job you do not like.
Think about previous experience - If you have any previous work or volunteer experience, be prepared to talk about it, and how it may potentially relate to the job you are interviewing for. Employers want to hear about how your experience has impacted you, and how it will help you perform the job they are interviewing you for.
Do not ramble - The time of the employer may be limited, as they have a lot of people to interview. While it is great for you to express yourself, so the employer can get to know you as best they can, stick to the question they are asking you, in the interest of the employer's time. In addition, the employer may ask you later on in the interview about the topics you were thinking about talking about.
Be yourself - The employer wants to get to know you. Don't pretend to be someone you are not. The goal of the interview is for the employer to get to know you, so they can evaluate whether or not you are a good fit for the job. If you might not be the best fit for the job, don't pretend to be, because you don't want to end up somewhere that is not a good fit for you.
Send a thank you note - After the interview, it is a good idea to send the employer a thank you note, for taking the time to consider you for a position. It may increase your chances of being selected for the position, and even if you do not get the position, it may be a good opportunity to make a business connection, that could help you down the line. The employer may also approach you first if they have a future position they are looking to fill.