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How do I do well in an interview?

What questions should I ask? Does it matter what I wear?

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Subject: Career question for you

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Jonathan’s Answer

An interview is the best chance for the employer to find out if you're a good fit for their role, and for you to get a good feel for whether their company and role might be a good fit for you. The best way to prepare for an interview is to learn to talk about your own talents, skills, and interests, objectively, the way a prospective employer or hiring manager might. You should expect that the employer can speak clearly and objectively about what they expect from the person who fills that role, and the kind of person they think will do well.

It does matter what you wear, as that's a signal that you prepared for the interview by finding out what kind of outfit is considered normal for the company, and the role, and wearing what's expected shows awareness of the company's culture and norms. Just as if you went to a social gathering, it would signal social awareness for you to have inquired about the dress code and worn something appropriate. A consideration during the interview will be whether your awareness indicates that you'll be able to quickly understand and fit into the company's culture, which includes things like what people wear, formality and precision of communication, and other things.

As an interviewer, I consider questions as a signal for what the interviewee cares about most. Generally, the best questions I've been asked are a clear signal that the candidate wants the same thing I do: to find out if they're a good fit for the role. The best questions for that are ones like "Can you tell me a bit about the kinds of people who've succeeded in this role/company in the past?" or "I was particularly interested in this aspect of the role, can you tell me a bit more about the kinds of problems I'd be solving or the work I'd be doing in that area?"

If you're ready to work hard and have awareness of the kinds of problems you're good at solving, there's a perfect job out there for you. Good luck!

Jonathan recommends the following next steps:

Think hard about problems you like solving. Problems in school, while playing games, or during work or other projects. Think about things that have been easier for you to work on than others, and some things that may have been harder for you than others. Make a list of things that have come easier for you and things that have been more challenging. That's a good start towards identifying your own talents and skills.
Talk to people in your life who might have an objective view of your list, such as former employers, teachers, or parents.
Every job is just a series of problems to be solved and tasks to be completed. Once you get to your list of preferred problems and tasks you wouldn't mind doing, you've got a good chance at thinking about jobs that might be a good fit.
Enter into interviews with the expectation that this particular job might not be the one for you. If you and the interviewer are aligned in your goals to find out if you're a fit, you're more likely to achieve it.
No single thing is more effective at preparing you for interviews than practicing in a mirror. Doing that for a few minutes per day will give you the best shot at presenting yourself as the best candidate in a role for which you think you're a good fit.
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Greg’s Answer

There are several things you can do to prepare for and perform well in a job interview. Here are some tips:

Research the company and the job: Learn as much as you can about the company and the role you are applying for. Review the job description, company website, and any other relevant information you can find.

Practice common interview questions: Review common interview questions and practice your answers. This will help you feel more confident and prepared.

Dress appropriately: Dress professionally and appropriately for the job and the company culture.

Arrive early: Arrive at least 10-15 minutes early to give yourself time to settle in and prepare mentally.

Be friendly and polite: Greet your interviewer with a smile and a firm handshake, and be polite throughout the interview.

Listen carefully: Pay attention to the questions your interviewer asks and make sure you understand them before answering.

Answer questions thoughtfully: Take your time to think through your answers and provide thoughtful, relevant responses.

Highlight your skills and experiences: Be sure to talk about your skills and experiences that are relevant to the job.

Ask questions: Come prepared with questions to ask your interviewer about the company and the role.

Follow up: Send a thank-you email or note to your interviewer after the interview to express your gratitude and reiterate your interest in the position.
Thank you comment icon I like the suggestion to send a follow up email afterwards. This is also a good skill for the future in terms of networking. However, I would also say that do not be disheartened if you do not get a response to such a follow up email as sometimes companies need to ensure that they are fair to all candidates who applied and prefer to keep communication to a minimum. Gemma Whiteley
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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Leo,

Mastering the Art of Successful Interviews

Boosting your odds of acing an interview involves careful preparation. Here are some essential steps to help you shine in your next interview:

Study the Company: Prior to the interview, conduct a comprehensive review of the company. Familiarize yourself with their offerings, services, culture, and core values. Demonstrating this knowledge during the interview will highlight your genuine interest in the role.

Rehearse Typical Interview Questions: Prepare responses to frequently asked interview questions like, "Can you tell me about yourself?", "What are your strengths and weaknesses?", and "Why are you interested in working here?" Rehearsing these responses will ensure you can deliver them smoothly during the interview.

Dress to Impress: Dressing professionally for an interview is crucial. Your outfit should align with the company's culture and the industry's standards. If unsure, it's always safer to err on the side of being slightly overdressed.

Exhibit Confidence: Maintain steady eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently during the interview. While highlighting your skills and experiences, remember to remain humble.

Inquire Thoughtfully: When given the opportunity towards the end of the interview, ask insightful questions about the role, company culture, or upcoming projects. This not only shows your interest in the position but also helps you gather useful information about the role.

Express Gratitude: Post-interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the interview opportunity. This small act can leave a lasting positive impression on the interviewer.

Preparation is the cornerstone of successful interviews. By doing your homework, rehearsing, dressing appropriately, exuding confidence, asking insightful questions, and following up post-interview, you can enhance your performance during this crucial phase of the job application process.

Top 3 Credible References Used:

Harvard Business Review
The Muse
Indeed Career Guide

MAY GOD BLESS YOU!
JC.
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Jennifer’s Answer

A few tips :
1. Research the company, ask a question about something you read.
2. Be willing to explain and describe your eagerness for the job even if you dont have a lot of experience.
3. Ask questions about their expectations of you if you hired
4. Be punctual for the interview :)
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Heidi’s Answer

The interview is the first opportunity for the employer to see if you are a good fit.

Here are the most important things to keep in mind.

1. Before you come to your interview, please make sure that you have researched the company and those that are interviewing you (if possible).
Come prepared with some questions that you may have.
2. Plan on arriving early, at least 15 minutes. This allows you some wiggle room in case you run into traffic, get lost, etc.
3. Dress appropriate to the culture of the employer. If not sure, ask the person who set up the interview with you.
4. Listen to the questions that the interviewer asks of you. If you don't understand the question, ask for them to repeat the question. Also, if you
need a few extra minutes to gather your thoughts, just let the interviewer know.
5. Always smile.
6. Before the interview is over, make sure that you have listed some examples of why you would be a great fit for the position.
7. Send a thank you email after the interview.
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Santhana’s Answer

1)Be on time. This often means 10-15 minutes early. ...
2)Use it during the interview. If you don’t know the name, call beforehand and ask the secretary. ...
3)Bring several copies of your resume. Also, bring a copy of your transcript. ...
4)Greet the interviewer with a handshake and a smile. ...
5)Expect to spend some time developing rapport. ...
6)Don’t be embarrassed if you are nervous. ...
7)Focus. ..
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
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PwC’s Answer

Have a great answer to the question "tell me about yourself?" It can be simple, but it's a great opportunity. From there, find some things in common (including personal things) that you can talk about with the interviewer. My best interviews have felt like conversations!
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PwC’s Answer

As a best practice, it's good to go into an interview prepared. If you can answer questions about yourself and make your past personal/professional experiences match up with the specific qualifications of a job, you'll be good!
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PwC’s Answer

Be confident in yourself. You got the interview for a reason so own it! You deserve to be there.
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PwC’s Answer

Come up with a pitch about yourself, and practice!
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PwC’s Answer

This sounds silly, but practice in the mirror and watch your facial expressions as you give answers. Being well-prepared to tell a story helps with being able to handle a job interview.
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PwC’s Answer

Remember that none of us actually knows what we're doing! Do your homework and ask the interviewer questions!
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PwC’s Answer

Your resume has shown that you're qualified for the job on paper- now is the time to show that your personality is a fit as well!
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PwC’s Answer

Practice interview questions that you can find on Google. Find the answers that feature your style and experience. Be prepared to shine in the interview!
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PwC’s Answer

Go in with an open mind and be yourself. Regardless try to research and prep a little, focus on the company's background and look up the interviewer. But don't stress, represent yourself in a professional manner and focus on any experience you have. At the end of the day, just be yourself!
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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Leo,

Getting Ready for the Interview

To make a strong impression at the interview, start by thoroughly researching the company and the role you're applying for. Gain a solid understanding of the company's mission, values, and culture. Familiarize yourself with the products or services they provide, as well as who their main competitors are. This knowledge will allow you to answer questions effectively and demonstrate your keen interest in the company.

Take some time to review your resume and be ready to talk about your experiences, skills, and achievements. Think about how these relate to the role you're seeking. Practice responding to typical interview questions and prepare answers that showcase your strengths and qualifications.

Choosing Your Outfit

Dress suitably for the company and role you're applying for. If you're unsure, it's always safer to be overdressed than underdressed. Ensure your clothes are clean, well-ironed, and professional. Steer clear of excessive accessories or overpowering perfumes or colognes.

During the Interview

Plan to arrive early at the interview location to account for any unexpected delays. Bring along copies of your resume, a list of references, and any other pertinent documents. Remember to turn your phone off or set it to silent mode.

Greet the interviewer with a confident handshake and maintain eye contact. Maintain a straight posture throughout the interview. Listen attentively to each question before answering and take a moment to organize your thoughts before responding. Speak clearly and confidently, using specific examples to back up your points.

Questions You Can Ask

Asking insightful questions exhibits your interest in the role and the company. Here are some questions you might want to ask:

What does a typical day look like in this role?
What are the major challenges this team/department is currently facing?
How does this role contribute to the company’s broader objectives?
What opportunities for growth and development exist in this position?
Could you tell me more about the company's culture and values?
What comes next in the hiring process?

After the Interview

After the interview, send a thank-you note or email to the interviewer to show your appreciation for the opportunity. Reaffirm your interest in the role and briefly recap why you believe you're the right fit. Follow any instructions provided by the interviewer for the next steps in the hiring process.

Recommended Reading

“How to Ace Your Job Interview” by Alison Doyle, published by The Balance Careers (2021)
“The Ultimate Guide to Job Interviews” by John Kador, published by McGraw-Hill Education (2017)
“Job Interview Questions: 101 Answers You Need to Know” by Allison Green, published by Hachette UK (2018)

May God Bless You!
James Constantine Frangos.
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PwC’s Answer

Do your research and practice! Stay calm and confident. Prepare with others!
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Leo,

Preparing for the Interview

Before the interview, research the company and the position you are applying for. Understand the company’s mission, values, and culture. Learn about the products or services they offer and their competitors. This will help you answer questions more effectively and show your interest in the company.

Review your resume and be prepared to discuss your experiences, skills, and accomplishments. Consider how these relate to the position you are applying for. Practice answering common interview questions and prepare answers that highlight your strengths and qualifications.

What to Wear

Dress appropriately for the company and position you are applying for. If you are unsure, it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed. Make sure your clothes are clean, pressed, and professional. Avoid excessive accessories or strong perfumes or colognes.

During the Interview

Arrive early to the interview location to allow time for unexpected delays. Bring copies of your resume, a list of references, and any other relevant documents. Turn off your phone or set it to silent mode.

Greet the interviewer with a firm handshake and make eye contact. Sit up straight and maintain good posture throughout the interview. Listen carefully to each question before answering and take a moment to gather your thoughts before responding. Speak clearly and confidently, using specific examples to illustrate your points.

Questions to Ask

Asking thoughtful questions shows your interest in the position and the company. Here are some questions you might consider:

What are the day-to-day responsibilities of this role?
What are the biggest challenges facing this team/department?
How does this role contribute to the company’s overall goals?
What opportunities are there for growth and development in this position?
Can you tell me more about the company culture and values?
What is the next step in the hiring process?

After the Interview

Send a thank-you note or email to the interviewer expressing your gratitude for the opportunity. Reiterate your interest in the position and briefly summarize why you believe you are a good fit. Follow any instructions provided by the interviewer for next steps in the hiring process.

Authoritative Reference Titles

“How to Ace Your Job Interview” by Alison Doyle, published by The Balance Careers (2021)
“The Ultimate Guide to Job Interviews” by John Kador, published by McGraw-Hill Education (2017)
“Job Interview Questions: 101 Answers You Need to Know” by Allison Green, published by Hachette UK (2018)

GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
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