Preparing for job interviews can be an overwhelming task, as you often have less than an hour to convince people that you’re the ‘right’ person for the job.

Being well prepared will help you look polished and prepared … and likely increase your chances of landing your dream job. Here are some great tips on how you can prepare for your next job interview.

1. Do your Research
Start with the Internet to research the Company and understand its key business operations. Take a look at their mission statement, core values and hiring practices to get an idea of how your skills will fit in with the Company’s culture. You may even want to research standard interview questions to prepare yourself for what may be asked during the interview.  

2. Plan your Answers
Many job interviewers tend to ask similar questions. For example, “Tell me about your strengths and weaknesses?” Why not think up a fresh answer to the age-old "weaknesses" question. Throw out the typical ‘I'm a perfectionist’ or I’m a workaholic’ responses and give the interviewer something different. A strategy may be to choose a weakness that you've taken steps toward improving and focus your answer on what you've done to better yourself. 

3. Practice. Practice. Practice.
Do a dry run of the interview. Practice saying your answers out loud with a friend and have them give you honest feedback. In all likelihood they’ll point out deficits you didn’t know you had. For example, are you saying “ummmm” after each question, twirling your hair, or nervously tapping your foot. Take the feedback, then put it to good use in the 'real' interview.  

4. Be Relaxed & Refreshed
Your interview performance will depend on how you’re feeling the day of your interview. Going in well rested and with a positive, relaxed attitude will benefit you.  So do what it takes to relax yourself the day of the interview and make sure you get enough rest the night before.

5. Be Present 
A job interview starts the moment you walk into the building, and it’s important to keep that in mind when you’re checking in with the receptionist, taking the elevator up or waiting in the lobby. Choosing to be present (not scrolling on your phone) can set you apart.  So, take in your surroundings, make conversation with others in the room or review your handwritten notes. 

Want more advice on how you can 'ace' your next interview? Send us a note jobs@amtrasolutions.com.