Tips for Your Next Job Interview

In my 25-year career I’ve held two jobs, so I haven’t had much experience being interviewed.  But I’ve probably conducted several hundred interviews.  Which means I should probably be further along in being a better interviewer.  But alas, I still sometimes ask questions that are too canned or alternatively that are too complex.  I do think, though, that along the way I’ve picked up a few pointers on what makes for a good interview.  So, hopefully this is helpful to anyone out there who’s looking for a job.

1. Dress up but not too far up.  Of course what is appropriate depends on the industry, company, and job.  But in most cases you won’t be penalized for working a little harder on looks and professionalism.  That said, I can read the body language of someone who hasn’t worn a suit in years, throws one on, and is noticeably uncomfortable in it.  Either wear the thing in advance and practice talking in front of mirror so you’re not so fidgety and out of place, or go with something that you can be yourself in but is still sharp.

2. Do your homework.  With the proliferation of information that is now publicly available, it is inexcusable that you would seek to work somewhere and not take time to get to know that place, how your position fits in, and something about what makes your interviewer tick.  Prepare questions about what the company is working on, and prepare answers about how you can contribute.  This shows you are willing to put in the time to be prepared, and also that you value the importance of connecting the dots rather than just do what you’re told with no regard to how it all comes together. 

3. Know what you want.  An interview is a two-way street.  They’re checking you out.  But you’re checking them out too.  Don’t focus so much on conforming to what will get you the offer that you don’t take the time to ask yourself what you need in a workplace.  And then make sure that you’re not just asking yourself, but using the interview to get those things answered, either by asking directly or by inferring through the course of your conversation.  I wouldn’t necessarily call this “playing hard to get,” but I will say that you can tell the difference between someone who says and does whatever it takes to get the job, and someone who knows what they want and explores whether this job would be a good mutual fit, and as for me I prefer the confidence and maturity of the latter.

4. Bonus tip.  Don't consume anything right before your interview that makes your whole mouth blue.  True story.