No matter whether the interview is in person, by phone, or over a video call, the very conversation with a potential employer is usually nerve-wracking. The situation is even more overwhelming for people who are giving their first job interview right after graduation. Hence, they need to prepare for such interviews properly and project confidence that impresses the interviewer. Tech talent development companies like Revature today help their trainees to hone the skills and capabilities needed to give great job interviews.
Revature shares insight into preparing for the very first job interview after college
First of all, before going for any job interview, one needs to research on the relevant company and job profile in depth. Most interviewers expect candidates to at least have a basic understanding of the company. Hence, at a minimum, one must browse the website of the organization, read a few marketing materials online, and, if possible, go through the articles of the company on or industry trade journals.
Job seekers must remember that there are likely to be a number of candidates interviewing for the same role, and all of them would have a similar educational background needed for the position. Hence, they need how to identify the factors that set them apart from the other candidates. Candidates must try to think about any special skills or experiences that might provide them with an edge against the others. For example, gaining training through Revature can help people to boost their portfolio as this company helps candidates learn on the job and get much needed real-world work experience. A lot of employers are likely to prefer candidates who at least have basic industry experience, instead of the ones who are just fresh graduates and only have theoretical knowledge.
An important part of preparing for the first job interview after college involves not only having the right answers but also asking smart questions. At some point in the job interview, the candidates would be asked if they have any questions or not. Even if a candidate simply wants the whole thing to get the whole thing over with, they need to focus on asking relevant and intelligent questions. This would demonstrate the level of interest they have in the job. Hence, prior to the interview, candidates should jot down a few questions they might ask the interviewers.
Before actually going for the interview, candidates must take part in certain mock interviews in order to practice their communication skills and improve their confidence levels. Even very knowledgeable candidates might end up fumbling during their first job interview due to nervousness, and hence it is always better to participate in mock sessions beforehand that help build confidence.
If the interview is in-person, then wearing a proper outfit is extremely important. No matter whether one is getting interviewed for an internship or entry-level job, they need to dress the part. It would be prudent to wear a nice shirt, blazer, and an ironed pair of pants to the interview, and show the HR manager that the candidate is actually serious about the job,