Are you looking to gain that all-important edge for your job interview coming up? It might sound ridiculous, but often the job will go to the person who looks the part, rather than the most qualified candidate on paper.
The bottom line is that these people are looking to hire somebody that they can stand working with for 40 plus hours per week. So it’s important to make sure at the very least that you don’t look and sound like an insane person because that’s a good way to go ahead and not get the job. Read our job interview tips!
Tip #1: Look the Part
It’s always good if you can manage to dress better than the person interviewing you. It might not sound like a big deal, but it will automatically give you more confidence. Make sure that if you do manage to look sharper than the person who interviews you, you tone down any behavior that might come across as arrogant. You want to look and feel like you are a great candidate for the job, but don’t make it seem like you think you have something coming to you.
And be sure to stop by Clockwork Cleaners before your interview to ensure you are dressed to impress! We have same day service so you can rest assured that your interview outfit is ready to go!
Tip #2: Have Stories to Tell
It’s not enough that you think your answer to that one lame question about what your worst quality is (we know that it’s something far more scandalous than being a perfectionist, by the way…). You should have somewhere around five stories to tell about scenarios in your work experience where you rose above the job description. You’ll also want to explore the dark side and figure out a story to tell where you came out a better person and professional because of adversity in a previous position, or maybe a situation where you didn’t get what you wanted or weren’t able to convince a colleague about an idea you had. It’s always good to over prepare with these. Go online and search for common as well as difficult interview questions. Write out and rehearse your answers. You’ll be a better interview because of it!
Tip #3: Ask Questions
The worst thing you can possibly do when your potential employer opens up the room to you for questions is to stare back with a blank expression and offer nothing. It’s important to research the company and the position. Make sure to ask about the culture at said company, how that person believes they got to where they are at this point. Ask what the last person who had the job you want went on to do. If you’re feeling bold, ask, “when do I start?” Just about anything is better than nothing. Use good judgment, of course.
Tip #4: Send a “Thank You” Letter
You have no idea how far this tip will take you. Basically, whenever someone in a professional sense gives you their free time or their expertise or advice in any way, shape, or form, it’s great to send a follow-up “thank you” letter or email. It’s a fine way to initiate conversation after the interview is said and done. In best case scenarios, even if you don’t get the job, you’ll have made a professional connection that maybe you can draw upon in the future. If you know that you didn’t get the job, then send a letter asking what you could have improved upon, and maybe what great qualities the candidate they hired exhibited that you didn’t. The worst they can do is say, “no”. But we assure you, just about nine times out of ten the person will give you valuable feedback. You might even land a different job with this employer down the road since you were so willing to accept feedback.
There’s so much more to an interview than simply wearing a tie. Clockwork Cleaners will have you looking fresh and ready to succeed, but make sure you backup your crisp, clean look with some serious game in the room. If you take our advice, you’ll likely set yourself apart from the rest of the pack, just like we do. After you get that new gig, make sure to bring those work clothes to Clockwork Cleaners. We’ll help you achieve a prestige look.
