Tips to Thrive - Mastering the Interview

Interviewing is an important part of the job search process, and there are some very simple things you can do to improve your success. Follow these practical tips and you will be well on your way to mastering the interview!

	Practice Active Listening Many people get nervous about interviewing, and when you’re nervous, you may spend more time thinking about how you’ll respond to someone than truly listening to what they’re saying. To avoid missing out on important details that your interviewer is providing, make a conscious effort to focus on what is being said. This will help you both feel more connected and engaged in the interview process.
	Be Honest Everyone wants to impress in the interview – but be careful not to cross the line between putting your best foot forward and misrepresenting yourself. If you feel it is necessary to exaggerate or lie to land a job, it is likely that the role you’re trying to take on won’t be the right fit. Set yourself up for success by being authentic, and the right doors will open to you.
	Ask Questions Don’t forget that you’re also a decision maker in the interviewing process! Ask questions that will help you get the information you need to decide if this is a company you want to work for. Questions about the job itself and the workplace culture are excellent places to start, but you will want to tailor your questions depending on what is most important to you in a job.
	Stay Positive Over the course of a job interview, you may decide that the position isn’t the right fit for you – and that is totally okay. Make sure that you still end things on a positive note by letting the company know that you appreciated their time and the opportunity to learn about their job opening. You may not be interested in this job, but the company may have future openings that you’re better suited for.