When starting the journey into the commercial job market, the first step is securing an interview. However, many people, especially students, are unaware of how the interview preparation process works.
When the interviewee is mentally and professionally prepared, the chances of a interview being successful are higher, and so is the likelihood of being hired. Jasmine Juaréz, junior business administration major, explained how students should prepare for a job interview.
“When preparing for a job interview, you must be mentally and physically prepared. Research the company, research the position, and make sure you know what you are getting into,” Juaréz said. “Make sure you have researched… the company’s values and ethics, so that when they ask you, in the interview, if you have questions, then you are well prepared. You should never leave an interview without asking questions.”
During interviews, it is common for people to feel insecure and anxious, allowing these emotions to influence the situation. Overcoming negative feelings remains a challenge for many individuals pursuing a career. Amy Dacus, senior public relations and Christian studies double major, shared how she handled anxiety during interviews.
“In my experience, interviews are a ‘fake it until you make it’ kind of situation. Be confident in the skills you do have and teachable and gracious about the ones you don’t,” Dacus said. “In my experience, a positive personality and kind heart go further than you think.”
Along with researching and being mentally prepared for a job interview, several other components must be considered, and many are often overlooked. Juaréz pointed out additional key components of interview success.
“A lot of people ignore the body language. When you’re sitting in an interview and are face-to-face with the interviewer, never have anything on the table,” Juaréz said. “Another important note is that your hands should never be on your lap. Your hands should always be in view of the interviewer, so that they can show confidence. If your hands are on your lap, it shows that you’re withdrawing from that person and the interview. Use your body language to show confidence so that the interviewer can see confidence within you.”
Unfortunately, sometimes interviews do not go as planned, and many people are unsure how to respond afterward. In a CNN Business article, titled “Job interviews: How young people can ace them,” writer Kristen Rogers explained how interviewees can handle setbacks.
“If you don’t have an answer for a question, ask the interviewer to rephrase or say ‘I don’t have much experience with that particular issue, but I can tell you about a time when X.’ You can also say you would like an opportunity to really think about the question if they would let you get back to them with an answer,” Rogers wrote. “These alternatives show you’re adaptable, and they allow you to show off in other ways.”
Overall, job interviews can be stressful and new for many, but they also serve as opportunities for learning and growth. Research and practice may not remove all negative emotions, but they will increase confidence and skill.
