3 Tips to Crush Your Next Job Interview

Summary

In this video, an employer shares three crucial tips to excel in a job interview. First, research the company thoroughly before the interview to show genuine interest. During the interview, be honest about your skills and areas for growth, avoiding overselling. Lastly, after the interview, send a thank-you note to stand out from other candidates. These steps—preparation, honesty, and follow-up—help candidates leave a lasting impression, increase credibility, and improve their chances of landing the job.

Takeaways

• 😀 Do thorough research on the company before your interview to stand out and show you’re serious about the role.
• 😀 A candidate who shows knowledge about the company, its challenges, and its leaders leaves a lasting impression.
• 😀 Honesty during the interview is key – avoid overselling your skills and be open about what you know and don't know.
• 😀 Transparency during the interview builds credibility and trust with the interviewer.
• 😀 Candidates who can express what they know and what they’re willing to learn (e.g., taking a course) are more appealing.
• 😀 Avoiding overselling helps prevent mismatched expectations, which could lead to being fired quickly if not met.
• 😀 After the interview, follow up with a thank-you note to express appreciation for the opportunity.
• 😀 A follow-up note shows professionalism and reinforces your genuine interest in the job.
• 😀 Only a small percentage of candidates send a thank-you note, so doing so helps you stand out from the crowd.
• 😀 The best candidates are proactive, taking time to express gratitude and reaffirming their fit for the role after the interview.

Q & A

Why is doing research before a job interview important?

Doing research before an interview demonstrates genuine interest in the company. It helps you understand the company’s values, challenges, and leadership, making you stand out as a well-prepared candidate.

What kind of research should candidates do before a job interview?

Candidates should research company stories, articles, employees, leaders, challenges, and the company's values. This allows candidates to demonstrate in-depth knowledge and show they are committed to the role.

How does research impact an employer’s perception of a candidate?

Research helps employers see the candidate as proactive, dedicated, and knowledgeable. It suggests that they will apply the same level of effort in their role, such as researching necessary systems or technologies.

What is the risk of overselling yourself during an interview?

Overselling yourself can lead to unrealistic expectations. If you are caught exaggerating your abilities, it could damage your credibility and potentially lead to being fired if hired.

How should candidates handle questions about areas where they lack expertise?

Candidates should be honest about their gaps in knowledge but emphasize their ability and willingness to learn quickly. Showing a proactive attitude, such as committing to a training course, can leave a positive impression.

What is the benefit of being honest about what you know and don’t know in an interview?

Being honest builds trust with the employer. It shows you have self-awareness and won’t surprise them with gaps in your knowledge later. It also positions you as someone who values integrity.

What role does sending a thank-you note after an interview play?

A thank-you note shows professionalism, appreciation, and genuine interest in the role. It sets you apart from other candidates and demonstrates that you are thoughtful and respectful.

How did one candidate's thank-you note impact their chances in the hiring process?

The candidate who sent a thank-you note was the most qualified, and their gesture was noticed by the employer. It led to positive discussions and made them stand out among other candidates who didn’t send a note.

What message does sending a thank-you email convey to the employer?

It conveys that the candidate values the opportunity, is polite, and has a professional attitude. It also reflects that they are eager for the role and respect the employer’s time.

Why do most candidates not send a thank-you note after an interview?

Many candidates overlook the impact of a thank-you note or might not see it as a priority. However, sending one shows extra effort and can set you apart from the competition.