[vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1568407669172{padding-bottom: 50px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text]In high school, we took SATs and ACTs to gain college admittance. In college, many of us took GREs, LSATs, MCATs, DATs, or another examination with the hopes of furthering our educations. And, in the professional world, we must sit through an interview. Interviews are just like any other big examination. They stand before a transition as if to say, “If you can pass through me, you may enter this uncharted territory.” An interview is a test to be passed. And, like most tests, you can prepare for it.
To be ready and confident when you enter an interview, never forget to bring these 3 essential things with you:
1. Resume/Reference List
Though it may seem obvious, many candidates forget to bring a copy of their resume to an interview. Because more than one person may interview you, we recommend you bring along 3 copies.
In addition to your resume, bring several copies of your list of references to give to interviewers.
2. ID
Many offices are located in buildings that require ID to enter. Because you want to cause as little trouble for you interviewer as possible, be sure to bring your ID, so he/she doesn’t have to escort you from the security desk to the office. You may also be asked to fill out paperwork and present your ID once inside the company office.
3. Knowledge
Interviews are your chance to let your knowledge of the company, the industry, and the position for which you’re vying shine. Study the company, brush up on the knowledge needed for the role, and research the current industry climate. Equipping yourself with this information demonstrates your desire to earn the job.
Interviews are exams that require improvisation, eloquence, and cognizance. As such, your neurons should be charged and firing from the moment your big toe crosses the threshold. So, as cliché as this may sound, be sure to get a good night’s sleep, eat a substantial breakfast, and hydrate.
Finally, arrive early. You may need to fill out forms prior to the interview, and you want to have time to complete them before the appointed interview time. Nevertheless, do not arrive too early. This will inconvenience and annoy potential employers. Ten to fifteen minutes prior to the interview is a safe window. Give yourself plenty of travel time. The last thing you want is to arrive late and flustered. So, overestimate the travel time to account for any traffic, bus, or train delays. Anyone who lives in a large city knows how unreliable public transportation is.
At Sharp Decisions, we genuinely want you to succeed in your professional life. If you apply for positions through Sharp Decisions, we can help. Not only will we represent you to our client and place your application in the hands of the hiring manager, but we will also prepare you for the interview.
Sharp Decisions is a Woman Owned Business Enterprise with 23 years of success in recruiting and consulting.
As always, Sharp Decisions wants to know your thoughts, questions, and concerns, so send them to hbruner@sharpdecisions.com. We’ll do our best to answer them accurately and quickly.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]