Top Tips for a Successful Job Interview

You cleaned up your résumé, you found a job you wanted (click here if you need help), and you just received a call to come in for an interview. While the résumé may be the item that gets your foot in the door, the interview is where the hiring decision is ultimately made. Does the thought of interviewing with a potential employer give you anxiety? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Properly prepare for your interview with insider tips from our Human Resources department. They’ve broken down the process into three easy-to-follow steps to help your nail your interview!

Prior to the Interview

• • As soon as you know the time of your interview, be sure to block off enough time in your schedule to get ready and arrive at least fifteen minutes early that day. Prepare beforehand by:
    • Checking your closet to make sure you have a suit or business attire that fits and is clean, including shoes to match.
    • Ironing your interview outfit and polishing your shoes if need be.
    • Ladies: Style your hair out of your face and check to see if your nail polish is chipped.
    • Gentleman: Tidy-up your facial hair or shave before the interview.
  • Revisit the position you applied for and make sure you fully understand the job description and skill requirements. This can be done by:
    • Printing out all documents and notes you have taken about the company and position.
    • Printing out multiple copies of your résumé and references. Your résumé should be the same résumé you sent when you originally applied and your references should be aware you have listed them.
  • Have your documents in a folder and bring a pen and notepad for the interview.
  • Again, research the company in addition to the employees interviewing you.
  • Prepare questions about the position, company, and company culture.
  • Turn your phone on silent or leave it in the car.
  • Feel free to bring a water bottle, but know it is inappropriate to bring juice or a coffee.
  • Practice, practice, practice! Have your friends ask you mock interview questions and practice asking questions you may have about the company.

During the Interview

• • • Confidence is key. From the moment you walk into the building be sure to maintain eye contact with whoever you are speaking with and shake hands with everyone you are introduced to.
    • Manners matter. Answering, “yes,” not “yeah,” or “yup,” can go a long way.
    • Think about what you want to say before you talk. This will help you avoid rambling and using words like, “um,” “like,” and other filler words.
    • While you may have prepared questions like we mentioned above, try and work those questions into the interview so you can hold more of a conversation.
    • Take notes during the interview.  It keeps you engaged and it shows that you have an interest in the position and what the employer is saying.

Follow-up

• • • Ask for business cards or the interviewers’ contact information prior to leaving the interview.
    • Make sure to ask, “What are the next steps?” or “Will I hear back either way?”
    • Prior to leaving, reaffirm your interest in the position and the company.
    • Wait until just after 5pm that day to send an email thanking the interviewer for their time, and follow up with any questions you may have forgotten to ask.
    • If you do not hear anything within 10 days, feel free to follow-up once more by phone or email.

Are you a motivated individual in search of an exciting, fast-paced career? If so, check out open positions at Mariner Finance! We are currently operating in 22 states, and are continuing to grow each day. Click here to learn about career opportunities, company culture, benefits, and more!