5 Last-Minute Job Interview Tips

By Caitlin von Liski in Careers, Special, TXEX on February 21, 2013 at 11:48 am | 1 Comment

So your job interview is tomorrow, and panic is starting to set in. Don’t worry—it’s never too late to prepare! Here are five easy things you can do the night before the interview to set your mind at ease.

Nail the job description. Study the job description’s required and preferred qualifications, and write down bullet points underneath each to highlight your experience and skills. Then practice talking about your skills out loud. You may feel silly rehearsing alone or with a friend, but this little exercise can go a long way toward making you feel comfortable and prepared.
Research the company. Do you understand the company’s mission and values, as well as those of the department where you’ll be working? Scour the company website to see what they’re all about, and plan to ask tailored questions that will show you’ve been thorough. (“I noticed your company has been growing fast. What are your growth projections for next year?”)
Research the interviewers. If you know the names of your interviewers, look them up on LinkedIn and tailor your questions to them specifically. (“I read that you are spearheading the data reorganization project for your department. Can you tell me more about that project and how you hope the person in this position can assist with that?”)
Plan the logistics. If you have a phone or video interview, test out the place where you plan to make the call. Is the connection strong? Do you need to adjust your webcam? If it’s an in-person interview, map out your drive and allow 20 extra minutes just in case.
Be ready—and relaxed. Get plenty of rest, eat a good breakfast, and don’t try to memorize your notes. You are going to do great!

Photo by Adam Foster on Flickr.

Tags: career services, careers, interviewing, interviews, job interview, job interviews, tips