Unfortunately, nothing prepares your for a job interview like a another interview. This is why hiring experts recommend you interview as often as possible in order to prepare yourself for that dream opportunity – once it finally comes along.
Get the Most Out of Your Last Interview Experience
When auditing your most recent interview, it’s important to write down as much information as you can remember, as soon as possible. Try to recall, in detail, the types of questions you were asked as well as your answers. Once you have all of this information gathered, ask yourself the following questions:
What could have been improved upon?
Start from the top and work your way down: did you forget the interviewer’s name? Was your handshake clammy? Did you struggle to make it to the interview on time? Even the best interviews leave room for improvement. Next time, learn from your mistakes – write down the interviewer’s name or keep the contact in your phone. Scope out the location the night before and leave extra time for travel to ensure you arrive 10 minutes before for your start time. Whatever your weakness, plot a solution that makes you feel prepared for your next interview.
Were you unprepared to answer any of their questions?
Having just completed a less-than-stellar interview performance, you now have a better sense of what kinds of questions an interviewer working within your field will ask. Next time, spend more time preparing your answers for potential interview questions.
What kinds of follow-up question did they ask?
Interviewers ask follow-up questions to get a better sense of what you really mean. Use your interviewer’s follow-up questions to elaborate and form more appropriate and well-rounded responses. Next time, listen to what the interviewer is really asking and ensure your answer gives as much detail as possible.
Did the interviewer focus on a particular aspect of your work history?
Perhaps the interview went sour after you were asked about a particular aspect of your work history – such as returning to work after an extended absence. In reality, no one is perfect and extenuating circumstances can be reasonably explained to a potential employer. Next time, ensure you’re prepared to discuss this aspect of your work history by reviewing our post on what to way regarding hard-to-explain aspects of your work history.
How was your posture and body language?
Did you find yourself uneasy? Were you fidgeting or playing with your hair? Your physical response to interview questions can offer a lot of insight to an interviewer. While a certain amount of nervous energy can be expected, uncomfortable body language can often be misinterpreted as a lack of interest in the position. Next time, stay calm and pay attention to your body language: sit up straight, don’t shake your legs under the table or twiddle your fingers.
While you may not get every job you interview for, it is important to learn from each interview experience – good or bad. Auditing your job interview performance is the best way to prepare for your next interview.
