You have applied for a job offer and good news! – Your application has been accepted? First of all, congratulations! You’ve caught the recruiters’ attention, and probably made a good impression. But before you get too excited, you must first prepare yourself thoroughly to conduct a good job interview.

Here are a few tips on how to persuade your potential future employer that you are the best person for the job you want, and how to make a success of your job interview.

How to prepare for a job interview?

According to a JDP study, candidates spend up to seven hours researching the company before their interview. Many candidates (64%) also research their interviewer. Because the interview is often stressful, 70% of respondents rehearse their answers out loud and 62% prepare anecdotes to share with their interviewer.

Here’s how to research the position and company, practice interview questions and answers, dress for the interview, follow up after the interview, and other tips for preparing for a job interview.

Analyze the job offer

An important part of preparing for a job interview is taking the time to analyze the job posting. By reviewing the detailed job description, identify exactly what the company is looking for. In effect, the job description is a summary of the qualifications, training, and skills that the company is looking for in a candidate.

List the skills, knowledge, and professional and personal qualities required by the employer and essential to succeed in the position.

Also, think of examples of past work experience that show you have differentiating qualities. For example, if the interviewer asks you to describe a time when you demonstrated a particular skill or ability, you will be prepared.

All of this information will allow you to conduct your job interview well, having a list of answers to any questions you may be asked.

This way, you have a better chance of hitting the nail on the head and making an impression on your potential future employer.

Research the company and the position

Researching the company is an essential step in preparing for your job interview. It helps you to better answer interview questions and to ask questions of the interviewer. You will also be able to find out if the company and its culture are right for you.

To get an idea about the company, its culture, its employees and its actions, there is no easier way than to go to its website, if it has one. Go to the “about us” page for a concise understanding of its industry, products or services. You can even read articles about it in magazines or on industry websites: Is it a market leader or a new player? Take a look at their communication strategy on social networks, to know if they are “up to date” with the digital world, or not, read customer reviews or those of their former and new employees to get an idea of the working environment. All these elements will allow you to be well prepared for the job interview.

Also, take the time to call on your network to see if you know anyone who could give you an advantage over the other candidates during the interview.

Have a clear vision

Understanding why you want the job and why you’re the ideal candidate is critical to a successful interview. Be prepared to explain why you are interested in the position and how you can contribute to the company’s growth.

Make a list of the most frequently asked questions during a job interview

Although it is impossible to anticipate all the questions you will be asked, there are several typical questions for which you should prepare answers, such as introducing yourself to the recruiter or describing your professional background.

However, you should be prepared to discuss your salary expectations. To avoid being caught off guard during the interview, be prepared for all possible scenarios.

Here is a non-exhaustive list of the most frequently asked questions during a job interview:

• What is your reason for wanting to work at our company?
• Why are you interested in this position?
• What are your main strengths and weaknesses?
• Why do you want to leave your current position?
• Where do you see yourself in five years?

Memorize your resume and cover letter

You should know your resume by heart and be prepared to answer any questions the recruiter may ask. As well as being able to explain any gaps in your resume. For example, if you have mentioned that you are proficient in graphic design software, back this up with an example. Put yourself in the recruiter’s shoes. What strengths and weaknesses would you identify in relation to the position if you received your resume?

Since the motivations in the cover letter are often slightly exaggerated, any questions about the information in the cover letter should be answered, so be prepared. If the recruiter asks you about the career plan you have indicated, be prepared to elaborate on that as well.

Another point to keep in mind, most recruiters require a digital copy of your resume when you apply. However, they may not have it available at the interview. You can show that you are well prepared and organized just by making printed copies available to them. Bring three copies of your resume to the interview so that everyone can have one. These may be small details, but by following them you will see for yourself how these tips will help you succeed in your job interview.

Pay attention to your body language

During the job interview, your gestures, posture, tone, look as well as your outfit send information to your interviewer about who you are.

I need to see that the person in front of me is lively, smiling and wants to be here,” explains Sacha, founder of Opening Stage. A person who doesn’t stand up straight or is slouching is a deal breaker.”

You understood it, body language plays an important role during the interview. To take care of it, training is the key. You can ask your friend, sister or even the mirror to help you simulate, but give yourself the time you need to prepare, even if this kind of posture is natural for you. Focus on your facial expressions, your handshake and your walk. Your posture should reflect assurance and confidence.

Prepare a list of questions to ask your interviewer

Asking questions is an act that is highly appreciated by the majority of recruiters. You have several options: questions about the position you are applying for, the company, the environment…

In order to conduct your job interview well, prepare a list of questions that show that you have done your research and that you have a good knowledge of the company and the position for which you have applied. This demonstrates your interest in the company.

Use the time your interviewer is speaking to take notes, which will help you ask questions, and sends a strong signal that you are paying attention to what he or she is saying, and that you are critical and curious.

Since you have done your research, ask the recruiter questions based on your knowledge of the company’s values, annual objectives, and the missions related to the position to be filled…. But above all, do not leave the interview without clarifying the next steps (the rest of the recruitment process).

Make an interview simulation

Spend some time practicing the interview questions you will likely be asked. Since you won’t have to fumble for an answer during the interview, it will help calm your nerves and reduce your jitters.

Although it can be difficult and exhausting, practicing multiple interviews will help you gain confidence and leave a favorable impression.

Try to conduct the mock job interview in the same format as the actual interview. For example, if it is a phone interview, have a friend call you to practice answering questions over the phone. If it’s a jury interview, ask your friends to pretend to be a jury. Make sure you are familiar with the technology if you are doing a virtual interview.

Sell yourself

Selling yourself to the employer in a job interview is one of the most difficult tasks. Most people have a hard time marketing themselves, but it doesn’t have to sound like a sales pitch. In fact, you can distinguish yourself from other candidates through your expertise and professional skills. Therefore, in order to convince the company to hire you, you must demonstrate your potential.

Start by listing your talents that are relevant and fit the job description. Think about how your knowledge and abilities can advance the company’s goals. Answer succinctly and concisely. To impress the employer, stick to the most positive and favorable details.

The key to a successful interview is preparation, so try to apply as many of our tips in this blog post as possible, and don’t hesitate to tell us what tips you have implemented to make your job interview a success. We look forward to hearing from you!