5 Things to Do Before Your Next Job Interview

2. Research the company

Although you’ll learn a lot about the organization during the interview, be sure to do some investigating beforehand. Familiarize yourself with the company’s mission statement and culture by checking out its website and social media platforms. Companies are working increasingly hard to hire not only the right

employees, but the right people. Being a good cultural fit can go a long way in securing a job 

3. Tap into your network of contacts

Speaking of social networks, don’t forget to make use of your own collection of contacts. Reach out to your school’s alumni to see whether anyone has experience in your field of interest. Or, if you know someone employed by the company you’re interviewing with, arrange an informational session with him or her. If all goes well, that person will probably put in a good word for you. 

4. Prepare questions for the hiring manager

A successful interview will feel more like a conversation than a one-sided interrogation. Although Browne advises students to rehearse short elevator speeches that can be used if the hiring manager asks them to tell him or her about themselves, it’s equally important to have additional questions ready. Ask for more detail about your potential role, the company and the interviewer’s experience at the organization. 

5. Use positive body language

 Parents don’t prod their kids to sit up at the dinner table for no reason. In an interview room, good posture matters, and the way in which you deliver your responses to questions is nearly as important as the answers themselves. “Body Language and attitude speak volumes,” Spencer says. “Show interest and enthusiasm for the company and the position.”