The art of nailing your job interview

You filled out your application, sent it in, scheduled an interview and you feel amazing. Then you realize you’ve never been interviewed before.

If the interview process seems daunting to you, you’re not alone. Interviews inevitably incite anxiety–especially if it’s your first. Don’t let this stop you from showing up; the best way to soothe your stress is to be prepared.

Prior to the interview, it is essential that you consider what an interviewer may ask you and begin plan answers ahead of time. That way, you won’t have to think of every answer on the spot. Clearly, there is no cheat sheet to know exactly what you will be asked, but be logical about what you think an interviewer probably wants to know about you and what you want the interviewer to know.

Many interviewers look for personality when you give your answers, according to Robert Watson, owner of Smallcakes Cupcakery.

“During the interview, I look for someone with an outgoing personality,” Watson said. “The employee will be working with customers, so I want to make sure they are able to have a good attitude.”

Before your interview, write down answers to the questions you feel are the toughest to answer or you’re not prepared for. This well help you memorize the answer and feel more comfortable talking about it. Then, if the interviewer asks you one, you are mentally prepared and have a well thought-out answer.

Similar to writing down answers, you should make a list of your strengths and weaknesses. This is an essential question in any interview and you want to make sure you can explain your top strengths, especially the ones that pertain to the job and stand out from other applicants.

I always recommend doing a practice interview with one of your parents or a friend because they can simulate the interview process as well as provide insightful advice.

Besides preparing excellent answers, appearance is a crucial part of any interview. Not just clothing wise, but also posure and how you carry yourself. Plan your outfit the day before the interview so that you are not rushed prior. Your outfit should make you look professional and put together. You don’t want to make a bad impression because there is a hole in your shirt or a stain on your pants. I recommend not wearing jeans, shorts or a t-shirt.

Senior Meredith Conway said she prepared for a job interview by planning her outfit ahead of time.

“I had my interview at a local coffee shop, so I knew my outfit did not have to be too formal, but not casual either,” said Conway. “I wore a sweater and a nice pair of pants.”

Aside from your outfit, how you carry yourself is a key factor. Try to always have great posture, maintain eye-contact and remember to smile. You may be thinking of yourself as a robot, but your body language says a lot about you.

On the day of your interview, remember to relax; you are well prepared. Give yourself plenty of travel time before your interview, and, most importantly, remember to be yourself. Prove what you can have to offer that no one else does and the job is yours.