5 Ways to Build Confidence for your In-Person Job Interview

Author: Charlie Coxon Published: July 2021

The job market is becoming more favorable for job seekers than ever. However, with more companies are opening back up, that means getting back into the office. This means leaving your home, driving to a big office building, and sitting face-to-face with someone else for your job interview instead of the video call interviews we have gotten used to. This transition will be jarring for some, so here are some strategies to help you nail your in-person interview:

1. Research the Company Beforehand

Essential for any job interview, understand the company you’re applying to. Ask yourself these questions before the big day: What is the job you’re seeking? Why are you seeking it over other positions? Why are you seeking it at this particular company? What does this company do that’s different from its competitors? What are this company’s core values? In addition, if you’re told who your interviewer will be, do some research on LinkedIn or on the company’s website to learn more about them. You may have something in common with them, such as an alma matter or past industry experience.

2. Know How They’re Adjusting to Post-COVID

Though the pandemic isn’t quite over yet, a working world without COVID-19 seems to be on the horizon. However, some companies may be more lenient than others when it comes to wearing masks, social distancing, and sanitizing workspaces. Understanding company-dependent policies prior to your interview will prevent any COVID faux pas you may otherwise encounter. After all, you don’t want to go in for a handshake just to get an awkward fist bump from your future boss!

3. Talk About What you Did During the Pandemic

Employment was very difficult to obtain during 2020, when most businesses were on life support due to lower sales, government regulations, and general uncertainty caused by the pandemic. As a result, many job-seekers have gaps in their resumés or periods of underemployment (when someone’s skills are underutilized in their occupation). If this describes you, be prepared with an explanation to questions about this. Don’t feel any pressure to overcompensate or lie; just inform them about what you did or what you learned over the past year and how you can use these things during your time at their company. A good employer will understand that 2020 was a difficult time with lasting effects on workers everywhere.

4. Come in with Ideas

Especially useful for younger employees, it always pays to come in with ideas for how you will perform the job at hand differently from anyone else. If you’re aware of insights or opportunities within the company’s industry, be sure to mention them during your initial conversations. Most candidates will stress that they are able to simply perform the tasks required of the desired position. By emphasizing ideas, you show your interviewer that you are capable of exceeding the requirements of your position instead of simply meeting them.

5. Ask Them About Themselves

It’s common knowledge that people would often rather talk about themselves than listen to someone else. By asking questions, your interviewer will believe that they gave a great interview without you having to say a word. This is especially effective if you’re being interviewed by the head of a department or a general manager since they will have a lot to say about their own careers and the firm you’re applying to. Asking your interviewer about what makes the company distinct, how their own time at the company has been, or about what led them to work at this company will be a surefire way to get them talking.

At BestLogic Staffing, we connect excellent talent with top firms. Be sure to check out our homepage for more information about how you can find a job that works for you. Also, check our our blog for more articles about your job search, recruiting, and HR industry insights.