We all reach that point in our lives when we are scouring the internet for open job positions. Whether it be at 16 or 20 years old, the first job interview that you actually score is super important and nerve-racking. Even if the job is just at an ice cream shop for the summer, the importance of that interview is the same as that of a job post-college.
There are certain things that you should do before your first job interview that will help you make a great first impression. To help you secure that job, here is a list of tips on how to prepare for an interview!
1. Research Potential Questions
Something that I have always done prior to an interview is research potential questions that I could be asked. Typically, people that have already been interviewed by that company will post online the questions that they were asked. This is super helpful because not only does it give you a chance to prepare potential answers, but it will also calm down your nerves to know that you are not going in blindsided.
2. Plan an Appropriate Outfit
An appropriate outfit for a job interview definitely depends on the type of job and company you are applying for. Do some extra research on the dress code if you are unsure, but if you are applying for a part-time job, you should wear something that shows off your personality. In general, aim to wear a dressy shirt, along with a pair of non-ripped jeans of your choice, and some sneakers.
3. Arrive Early
As the saying goes, if you are early, you are on time, but if you are on time, you are late. You want to show that you are not here to play games, so by arriving at least 10 minutes early, you are showing dedication and giving them a sign that you will never be late to a shift.
4. Be Yourself and Stand-Out
You can make yourself stand out in so many ways during an interview, but the most important thing is to be yourself. You never want to give them a false impression of who you are as a person because then they will expect that out of you every single day. In general, though, some tips I have to stand out would have to be showing confidence in your answers and asking questions at the end.
If you listen to each and every one of these tips, you are bound to score that job that you have been hoping for. I wish every single one of you the best of luck during your next interview, you are going to rock it! Tag us on Instagram @HerCampusSJSU with all of your interview stories, we would love to hear them!
ย