How to ace your next interview: 7 things your interviewer wishes you knew

Interviewing can be nerve-wracking, even for seasoned pros. It's easy to get tempted to just "wing it" and hope for the best, but trust us - this is a recipe for disaster. So, to help you ace your next interview and show off your true brilliance, we chatted with Ryan, one of the lead interviewers on our Talent Acquisition team. Get ready to take notes, because these tips are guaranteed to make you shine!

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Q: What are some of the biggest interview mistakes you’ve seen? 

A: Two of the biggest interview mistakes I’ve seen in a virtual interview is being in a moving vehicle and not allowing enough time for the interview. Going out on your lunch break is ok but when you are in a moving vehicle, connection may be an issue - you may not be able to hear each other, the screen may freeze or lag, etc. This may impact your chance to make a good first impression. Also, time is valuable - yours and the interviewer’s. Please be sure to check the interview confirmation to ensure you are available during the allotted time. General rule of thumb is to arrive a little bit earlier to the interview to prepare yourself and get yourself situated. 

The biggest mistakes I’ve seen in an in person interview is not being prepared and not putting your best foot forward. You want to show that you are interested and the right fit for the job - so you want to smile, have a good attitude and be positive. Anxiousness and nervousness can be seen and understood. Be confident! Being prepared can lead to confidence.

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Q: Do you have any tips on how to prepare for an interview?

A: Research the company to see if it will be a good fit and be ready to demonstrate your knowledge. Think about the position you are interviewing for and come up with examples from prior experience. If the position you are interviewing for has technical components, be prepared to answer specific questions about the skill.

If the interview is virtual, be sure to check your Internet connection and make sure any audio/visual troubleshooting is done before the interview starts. You also want to make sure you are in a proper setting, away from any distractions or interruptions for the duration of the interview. 

Q: What should you do if you are going to be late?

A: If you are running late or are not able to make the interview time anymore, be sure to reach out as soon as possible to let the interviewer know. We may be able to fit you in later in the day or we can reschedule for another day. Being late is better than being a no show. Reaching out shows that you are truly interested in the position and that you respect the interviewer's time.

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Q: Any guidance on what to wear to an interview?

A: Dress business casual - button down shirt or a nice blouse and feel free to elevate with a blazer! Be professional - it’s always important to be presentable and professional. Please do not arrive without a shirt, in a tank top or wearing anything inappropriate (even if it is a virtual interview).

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Q: If you were having a bad day, how would you shift your attitude to be more interview ready?

A: Bad days are inevitable and can happen at the most inconvenient time. But attitude is a choice! Be sure to give yourself some time before the interview to meditate, listen to music or chat with a friend. You want to put your best foot forward so don’t let something like a bad day skew your first impression.

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Q: Any tips on what to do if you were stumped on an interview question?

A: Be honest! We aren’t looking for a “right answer” to all the questions. If you are stumped, walk the interviewer through your thought process and show your critical thinking skills. 

On top of that, don’t be afraid to ask the interviewer for clarification or for a moment to think about it! We would much rather you take the time to give us a great answer rather than answering quickly with a poorly thought out one. 

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Q: How would you answer a question about prior job experience if you have none?

A: Honesty is the best policy - be honest with your experience, even if it is limited! Just because you don’t have experience in one area, doesn’t mean we won’t be able to find opportunities for you elsewhere. Knowledge and skill may not always be acquired traditionally. You may have gained experience through education or doing things like volunteering or community development. 

Hopefully, these tips will help you ace your next interview! 

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