6 Steps to ACE your Job Interview (+ pep talk!)

Summary

In this video, filmmaker and content creator Aaron McGoff offers a 6-step guide to help viewers nail their job interviews. He emphasizes the importance of adopting a confident mindset, preparing answers that align with the job description, and researching the company thoroughly. McGoff also advises candidates to come with thoughtful questions for the interviewers and to dress appropriately. Additionally, practicing with a mock interview is essential for refining body language and responses. This comprehensive guide ensures that job seekers are fully prepared to present themselves as the ideal candidate.

Takeaways

• 😀 Always approach your job interview with confidence—remember that the company already sees potential in you by inviting you in.
• 😀 Shift your mindset: Interviews are a two-way street. The company needs you as much as you need them.
• 😀 Prepare by thoroughly reviewing the job description and aligning your responses with the keywords and skills mentioned in it.
• 😀 Rehearse answers to common interview questions using the language from the job description to make your answers more relevant to the hiring manager.
• 😀 Research the company for at least 30 minutes before the interview. Understand its values, mission, recent news, and employees to be well-prepared.
• 😀 Use LinkedIn to learn about the company and, if possible, connect with someone internally for valuable insights or an insider referral.
• 😀 Always have 4-5 specific questions ready to ask at the end of the interview, showing that you’ve done your research and are truly interested in the company.
• 😀 Dress appropriately for the interview: slightly more formal than the company’s daily attire to leave a positive impression.
• 😀 Make sure your outfit is clean, well-fitted, and professional. Fit is more important than the exact brand or style of clothing.
• 😀 Do a mock interview with someone who can provide honest feedback about your answers and body language, as non-verbal cues are crucial in interviews.
• 😀 Remember that 65% of communication is through body language, so practice making eye contact and being mindful of your gestures and posture.

Q & A

Why is mindset so important going into a job interview?

Mindset is crucial because it determines how you approach the interview. Instead of feeling desperate or fearful, you should view the interview as a two-way process. You're not just being evaluated, but you are also evaluating the company to see if it’s the right fit for you. A positive mindset boosts your confidence and helps you perform better.

How should you approach the job description when preparing for an interview?

Review the job description carefully, focusing on the skills and keywords mentioned. Ensure you mention these keywords during the interview to match the company’s expectations. It’s also helpful to research common interview questions and tailor your answers using the language from the job description.

What are some key strategies to research the company before an interview?

Start by exploring the company website, particularly the 'About', 'Mission', and 'Careers' pages. This helps you understand the company’s values. You should also check recent news about the company and industry to stay up to date. Finally, browsing LinkedIn can provide insights about the company’s employees and help you identify mutual connections or the person interviewing you.

How can asking questions at the end of the interview set you apart from other candidates?

Asking thoughtful, specific questions shows that you are proactive, engaged, and genuinely interested in the company. It can also give you insights into the company culture and demonstrate that you've done your research. For example, asking about the company’s future plans or its approach to sustainability signals that you’re thinking beyond just getting the job.

What are some example questions you can ask during an interview?

Good questions to ask include: 'Who will I be reporting to in this role?', 'What’s the most important soft skill someone in this role needs?', and 'How does the company approach sustainability or innovation?'. The more specific your question, the better, as it reflects your knowledge of the company and the role.

What’s the best approach for selecting an outfit for an interview?

Aim to be slightly overdressed rather than underdressed. Ensure your clothes are clean, wrinkle-free, and fit well. The appropriate outfit varies depending on the industry—formal for corporate roles (e.g., legal), and business casual for creative or tech roles. Always err on the side of being modest and conservative.

How can you ensure your interview outfit is appropriate for the company?

Research the company’s dress code by observing what employees typically wear, either in person or online. Then, choose an outfit that’s one step more formal than their usual attire. If employees wear uniforms, opt for business casual. If they wear business casual, go for business formal, and if they dress formally, wear a suit.

Why should you conduct a mock interview before the real thing?

A mock interview helps you practice your responses, improve your confidence, and become more aware of your body language. You can receive valuable feedback from someone who will honestly point out areas for improvement, helping you avoid common pitfalls like fidgeting or lack of eye contact.

What should you focus on during a mock interview?

During a mock interview, focus on body language (like posture and eye contact), answering questions concisely, and maintaining a calm and confident demeanor. Be sure to get feedback from someone who can point out areas that need improvement, whether it’s nervous habits or unclear answers.

What is the role of body language in a job interview?

Body language plays a significant role in communication. Research shows that 65% of communication is non-verbal. In an interview, your posture, facial expressions, eye contact, and gestures all send strong signals to the interviewer about your confidence, professionalism, and attentiveness.