How to Nail Your Job Interview

Alex Woodward |
Alex is a Growth Marketing Manager at Snagajob, where she works with sales to help connect businesses with the right workers. Her first hourly job was as a barista at Caribou Coffee.

You've got an interview! The great news is that on paper the interviewer already thinks you are a fit for the position and one of the top candidates. We're here to help you knock your interviewer's socks off and leave a lasting impression. If an employer remembers how great your interview went compared to the other applicants, you are sure to land the job. These are just a few ways to make sure you stand out in a positive manner.

Dress professionally

Your interview outfit will be one of the first impressions you make so you want to be as polished and professional as possible. And it doesn't have to be expensive to wear something professional.

Come prepared

Have a copy of your resume handy to give to the employer. Also, practice a mock interview with a friend and come ready to answer common job interview questions.

Arrive early

Showing up about 10 minutes early to an interview is expected. If you arrive at exactly the time your interview is scheduled, you might risk looking like you’re late to the employer. If you do run into an unavoidable emergency, make sure to call the interviewer to cancel or reschedule the interview. Showing up late without a phone call is a guaranteed way to miss out on a job.

Stay off your phone!

Even when you arrive early, you should just leave your cell phone in the car. If the interviewer comes out and sees you on your phone, they might assume you will be on it at work as well. And having your phone go off during an interview is a definite no-no.

Ask thoughtful questions

Try to come with at least two – four questions to ask the interviewer. But be sure they make sense for the industry and position. If you fit the qualifications and present yourself professionally, this will be the cherry on top of an awesome interview.
These are just a few of the basics to guarantee you make a great first impression. Good luck in your interview!