How to nail a job interview in nine steps

Competition for jobs can be fierce.

Step one: secure the interview.

Step two: dominate it.

Here are nine steps on how to do just that.

• Research the company and possible interviewers. Understanding the company helps candidates interview with confidence. The company’s website, social media posts, and recent press releases will provide a solid understanding of the company’s goals. From this, you can apply your background and experience to their mission.
• Prepare smart questions. Interviews are a two-way street. Employers expect you to ask questions. They want to know a candidate is thinking seriously about what it would be like to work there.
• Bring a notebook, a pen, and copies of your resume. Print five copies of your resume in case there are multiple interviewers. Highlight specific accomplishments on your own copy that you can easily refer to and discuss. Bring a pen and a small notebook. Prepare to take notes.
• Arrive 10–15 minutes early. Map out your route to the interview location so you can be sure to arrive on time. Always identify a backup plan if there are delays or closures.
• Make a great first impression. Remember the little things : shine your shoes, clean your nails, and check clothes for holes, stains and loose threads.
• Practice good manners and body language. Confident, accessible body language is important. Sit or stand tall with your shoulders back. Before the interview, take 3 breaths and exhale slowly to manage feelings of anxiety and encourage self-confidence. An interviewer should extend their hand first to initiate a handshake. Stand, look the person in the eye and smile. A good handshake should be firm, but not crush the other person’s fingers.
• Tie answers back to your skills and accomplishments.With any question you answer, it is important that you refer to your background providing examples of solutions and results achieved. Use every opportunity to address the requirements listed in the job description.
• Keep answers concise and focused. Time is limited, so be mindful of rambling. Practicing your answers beforehand to keep focused.
• Ask about the next steps. After your interview, ask what you should expect next. This may be a follow-up email with results from your interview, additional requirements like an assignment, a reference list or another interview.

Success leans on being well prepared in an interview. Practicing and understanding these steps should make you feel more confident and successful in interviewing.