The Interview. Arguably the most vital part of the job application process. There’s plenty of discourse amongst the employed population about the difficulty of a job interview, but let me tell you: it’s not worth nearly as much concern as most people give it. The method to ace any job interview can be broken down into 6 easy steps. 

Step 1: Dress the Part
It’s impossible to overdress. Unless you plan to show up in black-tie attire, you can never look “too professional.” Your safest option is a button-up, usually solid color or a simple pattern, and a pair of dress pants. Any close-toed shoes will do, and accessories are entirely up to the applicant. Hair can be tricky; a bird’s nest isn’t ideal, so a simple updo or comb-through is your best bet. Business casual is the way to go. 

Step 2: Prepare Your Answers
From retail to food service and finance to cosmetology, no interviewer is trying to reinvent the wheel with questions. A simple Google Search for basic interview questions can clue you in to just about any question thrown your way. Preparing what you’ll say in advance, or at least having an idea of what you’ll be asked is an excellent way to not only be one step ahead, but quell any anxiety you may have of the upcoming personal trivia. 

Step 3: Punctuality is Key
A tip to carry with you, not just to job interviews but everywhere, is that “early” is on time, “on time” is late, and “late” is a surefire way to miss your opportunity. Time management is crucial in the real world, and procrastination or time-blindness will have you left in the dust of success. Arriving five to 10 minutes early shows your employer that you not only respect their time, but know how to manage your own. It should be noted, though, that arriving 20+ minutes early can be seen as unprofessional and imply a lack of consideration for the interviewer’s, likely, busy schedule.

Step 4: Remember Proper Etiquette
As silly as it sounds, remember your P’s and Q’s. A simple “please” and “thank you” goes a long way. Common courtesy for the people around you showcases respect, kindness and authenticity. You can tell a lot about a person from the way they treat the people around them. Since the pandemic, physical contact has developed a bad reputation. However, if you’re comfortable, a firm handshake and eye contact can help make a meaningful first impression. 

Step 5: Be Honest, Confident, and Curious
The line between confidence and arrogance is thin, but it’s your mission not to cross it. You want to answer your interviewer’s questions as honestly as possible with as much confidence as you can muster. Even if the only thing you feel is crippling anxiety and overwhelming nervousness, you know what they… fake it ‘till you make it! Remember to ask questions, too. Get your interviewer to feed you as much information about the position as possible, knowledge is power. 

Step 6: End on a High Note
Once again, a handshake is meaningful, but not absolutely necessary. Otherwise, note that it is vital to thank your interviewer for their time, because they were under no obligation to interview you. Attempting to confirm future communication isn’t always possible, but trying can’t hurt and if you’re able to get them to say something along the lines of “I’ll reach out to you,” builds the bridge for correspondence whether they follow through or not.