It’s that time of the year again. Dust off your resume and start making those career dreams a reality. It’s a great time to kick off a search; the current job market is employee-driven and technology companies are offering competitive salaries and exceptional benefits to connect with and retain top talent.
If it’s been a while since you’ve had your feet in the job search waters, some things may have changed a bit. For example, many interviews are currently being conducted by video. However, don’t let this deter you. The general best practices for nailing your interview are timeless. Here’s a refresh.
Prepare questions: Most employers will ask you if you have any questions for them at some point in the interview. Prepare by jotting down a list of things you would like to know about the position you’re applying for and the company as a whole. While additional questions may come up during the interview, you can reference this list in case of a lull in the conversation.
Shake out the jitters: If you’re feeling a little nervous about participating in an interview, don’t forget this is completely normal. Leading up to the interview, take good care of your mental and physical health to ensure you’re in a good headspace the day of the interview. Get enough sleep, move your body and be sure you eat enough beforehand. When you feel good, it shows.
Confirm the interview location: When you receive an invite for an interview, double-check to confirm if the interview will be conducted by video or in person. It’s not unheard of for mistakes to be made in calendar invites and this extra attention to detail will pay off by ensuring you are where you’re supposed to be, on time.
Research past projects: If you’re privy to information about the team you are vying to join, explore some of the big projects they have accomplished together. For example, if a new membership platform or website was recently launched, make a mental note of that. Consider how your skillset could have complemented their work so the hiring team can envision you as a crucial part of future projects.
Review the job description thoroughly: Even if you get the gist of the position you’re applying for, it’s a great idea to comb through the job description thoroughly to understand what you can bring to the table based on past experience. If there are vague responsibilities, ask questions during the interview to ensure it’s a good fit for both you and the company.
Give yourself a confidence boost: Sometimes imposter syndrome can creep up on the most qualified candidates right before an interview. If you find yourself second-guessing your capabilities, take some time to review your resume for a quick boost in confidence. Keep in mind, if you weren’t qualified, there is a good chance you wouldn’t have been invited in for an interview.
If you’re ready to the ground running in the new year, Avanti can help. Visit our Careers page to see current open opportunities.