Do you have an upcoming interview? Congratulations! Here are a few interview habits that can boost your chances of successfully landing a job in any field.
Understand Behavior-Based Interview Questions
Behavior-based interview questions are increasingly common, because they give the interviewer more insight into how you think. But they can trip you up if you aren’t expecting them. These types of questions generally go something like this: “Tell me about a time when you did X, Y, or Z.” It might have to do with working with someone you didn’t like, or solving a job-related problem, or even making and then fixing a mistake. Just remember that the goal is always to show the interviewer how you handle difficult situations.
Prepare and Practice Your Responses
You won’t know in advance exactly what questions you will be asked. But it’s generally best to use the STAR method to respond to behavior-based questions:
- Situation: Set up the scene with just enough details to add color.
- Task: Explain why you were in the scene.
- Action: Describe your action steps as the situation unfolded.
- Result: Share the outcome.
This four-part method lets you frame your response as a narrative-based story that is easy to follow. Practice using it for a variety of different behavior-based questions. Even if you are asked something completely different, practicing teaches you how to present your response, creating interview habits you won’t forget.
Dress for Success
The next step is to pick out your interview clothes in advance. Dress one level better than what you would wear on the job. So if you’re interviewing for a warehouse position, you might choose dress pants and a button-down shirt instead of jeans and a t-shirt. Make sure everything is clean and fits you comfortably.
Arrive Early
Make sure you know exactly how to get to your interview, and add on some extra time. It’s generally best to arrive about 15 minutes early. This gives you time to find the right office, visit the restroom, and take a few moments to compose yourself.
Remain Professional
Remember that you’re “on stage” from the moment you arrive until the moment you leave. Treat everyone you encounter with respect and friendliness, from the person who greets you to the janitor you meet in the hallway. Many interviewers will speak with others who encountered you that day to get their general impressions.
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