Parsing, Posture, and Process: 5 More Tips to Prepare for Job Interviews
“Most rock journalism is people who can't write, interviewing people who can't talk, for people who can't read.” - Frank Zappa
As we approach the spring and summer, many first generation students and professionals are readying for their first (or close to first) job interviews. Whether you have been in your role for a few years, or are seeking your first major opportunity, preparing for the interview is key, including important pre-research on the role itself, practicing your body language as well as your responses, and understanding the hiring process as a whole. In this Article we provide five more tips on how you can put your best foot forward during your upcoming interview.
For more inspiration and preparation, also check out FGPM’s Quinn Stigers Article on her Top Five Best Practices for Your Best Interview.
Parse job description for key words and match to your resume
When preparing for an interview, ready yourself with key words and phrases to highlight from your background and experience. First, cross reference the position description with your resume: what skills are listed on the description that you can tie to your experience? Is there any prior employment that is directly on point to the potential role? Are there certifications or metrics for which the potential employer is looking? Highlight these aspects on the paper resume you will be bringing into the interview and be sure to state them as you describe your candidacy. This is not the time to be modest!
Practice proper body language and etiquette
The last thing on your mind during an interview should be your presentation and posture. When participating in your mock interviews, or otherwise practicing your canned responses, consider dressing for the formality of the role to develop familiarity with interview decorum. Observe the usual conduct: sit up straight, relax the shoulders away from your ears, keep steady eye contact, and don’t forget to breathe.
Research the job
We have previously advised you to research the company with which you are applying, as well as the interviewers. You should also consider researching the potential role, including common duties and responsibilities, salary range (by industry), expected title hierarchy and advancement timing, and leadership opportunities. A holistic understanding of the role will help you determine if this position is suitable for you and your goals, if the expectations of advancement are customary, or if the salary range being offered equates to the scope of the responsibilities. To start this research, search the role on your favorite job posting sites and look for same-or-similar duties, salary ranges at smaller and larger companies, and to whom the comparison roles report, which will familiarize you with title hierarchy in that industry.
When you are preparing your list of questions to ask during the interview, role-specific ideas could include:
Do you see the responsibilities of this role evolving over time?
What are the most important qualities of a successful candidate for this role?
Why is this position available? Was there a departure or is this a new role?
How long were you in your role before advancing?
What does development look like at X Company or for this role? Who will I be working with to ensure I am on track?
Understand the process
While you are asking your questions during the interview, consider asking questions about the hiring process as a whole. Not only will this help you understand timing for a response, but will also demonstrate investment in the process. Keep in mind that one strong question in this category may be sufficient; you do not want to seem pushy or overconfident.
Examples of questions could include:
Inquire as to expected rounds of interviews (and with whom)
Request a timeline for response
Ask how many other candidates are being considered
As always, Follow up
One of our favorite pieces of advice is follow up, follow up, follow up. Check out this follow up template, from Indeed.
In the first paragraph, mention the specific job title and thank your interviewer.
In the second paragraph, note the company’s name as well as a conversation point and/or goal that seemed especially important to the person you spoke with. Connect that point to your experience and interests.
In the final paragraph, invite them to ask you any additional questions and close by saying you’re looking forward to hearing back. (1)
Preparing for interviews can be stressful, especially since we feel the stakes are high. Hopefully, with preparation and practice, we can put our best foot forward and secure the role.
Citations
Keiling, Hanne. “How to Prepare for an Interview in 11 Steps | Indeed.Com.” Indeed, 31 Aug. 2023, www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/how-to-prepare-for-an-interview.
Team, Indeed. “What Is a Screening Interview? Everything You Need To Know.” Indeed, 9 June 2023, www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/screening-interview.
Editors, The Muse. “30+ Best Tips on How to Prepare for a Job Interview.” The Muse, The Muse, 6 Mar. 2024, www.themuse.com/advice/the-ultimate-interview-guide-30-prep-tips-for-job-interview-success.
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