Do you remember the excitement you had when you received a call or an email from a company that was intrigued by your resume? After all, that decision maker went through hundreds of resumes and only five stuck out and yours happens to be one of them! It leaves you feeling satisfied knowing you beat 98% of the competition without even showing your face!

If you thought that was the hardest part, then you are wrong. Many people have incredible resumes, but their performance during the interview is what cost them from attaining their dream job. Remember, at an interview, you are a salesperson to yourself, explaining in detail why you are the best fit for the company and the role that you applied for. Take note of five key things you must do during your next interview!

1. Arrive 15 minutes before the interview begins.

Having a lack of punctuality can mean an instant deal breaker for the potential employer. The last first impression you want to give is that your time is more valuable than theirs. So, try not to lounge on Netflix too long the night before the interview and get some rest. You want to be fully alert and on time for the interview.

2. Be sure to do your research on the company beforehand.

This has been the downfall of so many prospective candidates. How can you say you are the right person for the job if you have no idea what the company does, their core values, and what they expect from you? Your knowledge of the company should be as if you are already employed with them. The “About Us” tab on a company website is a great way to get started your research.

3. Maintain appropriate eye contact during the interview.

A key factor to a successful job interview is remaining engaged. The way to accomplish this is with your eyes. When the hiring manager is discussing the role and asking questions, you should continue to give clear eye contact while expressing yourself. It shows confidence and assures the interviewer that you mean what you say. 

  4. Do not restate what is already on your resume.  

The hiring manager has looked over your resume several times throughout the week. So you want to avoid repeating the same things that they already know about you. This is the chance to sell yourself. To do that, when the hiring manager asks you specific questions about past positions and your skill set, be prepared to express yourself in an enthusiastic way. Explain in detail why you are the best person for the role. Remember: No one can sell you better than you!

5. Have questions prepared for the interviewer.

As you know, each interview concludes with “Do you have any questions for me?” Oh yeah, this is what you’ve been waiting for! The interviewer is giving you “the power” to control the interview. You want to ask questions that are effective and helps you decide if you want to be employed by them. Ask questions such as “Does your company offer opportunities for growth?” Regarding your position, you can ask “If I am hired for this role, what are some of the challenges that I will come across?” Such questions show that you came prepared and shows the interviewer that you put a lot of thought into what you wanted to ask.

Some of you reading this article may have an interview approaching in a few days. Think these points over and put them into action. Doing this will not only help you have a successful interview, but it will increase your chances of receiving an offer letter to the job of your dreams.