How To Prepare For An Interview

This Thursday, I will be going to my first big interview. I have had countless interviews in the past for internships and jobs, but none quite like this. What makes this interview stand out is that it is the first one that is for my post-graduate life. Also, the interview is for a company in Arizona. Coming from someone who lives in Pennsylvania, this is a huge leap, but something I am very interested in.

The job itself is for Vanguard, an investment company, where I am interviewing to be an investment professional. While the position is not directly marketing, there is space for growth. It is a job where I would have to utilize what I learned in marketing to succeed. That aside, I decided to put together a list that explains what I have done in the past and what I am doing to prepare for this interview.

1. Know what kind of interview it is and prepare accordingly

There are many different types of interview formats. They can be telephone based, face-to-face, one-on-one, group, panel, traditional, sequential, technical, and behavioral. For my interview, it is behavioral based. This means I will be asked questions describing real situations from the past. Be sure to know what kind of interview to expect.

2. Research the company

The most obvious, yet important task there is. You can’t go into an interview not knowing anything about the company. Be sure to look at the company website and learn their values and culture. Also, research what market the company you are applying for is in. In my case, I have to research the finance industry.

3. Compare your skills to the job requirements

Know what the specific job description is for the job you are applying for. Figure out how your skills can be used and what you will bring to the table.

4. Prepare answers to questions

This is where you can look up typical interview questions and come up with answers to them. In my case, I must be prepared to use STAR Method (Tell us the Situation, Tasks, Action and Result of your actions). Be sure to come prepared with examples of client service, relationship building, time management, problem solving and team work from your work/school experiences.

5. Dress for success

You’ve heard the phrase “dress for the job you want, not the one you have.” It is important to know what kind of job you are applying for and know their dress code. Even if it is a casual environment, it is still important to look neat and well-groomed. Usually, dress in business attire and avoid any crazy accessories.

6. Know what to bring to the interview

You don’t want to get to an interview and panic that you forgot something. As a basis, make sure to bring a pad-folio with copies of your resume, a list of references, notes and questions to ask the interviewer, and a pen/pencil.

7. Make a list of questions to ask the interviewer

In an interview, it is just as important to answer question as it is to ask them. Be sure to come prepared with specific questions. A good tip is to look up good interview questions on Google.

8. Remember to follow up with a thank you note

It is especially important to reiterate your interest in the job and remind the employer of your skills and qualifications. This is also a great place to discuss anything you may have forgotten to ask.