Landing a job interview may be feel like the end of a process, but things are just getting started. These tips can help make that interview a success
By Katrina Caruso
Looking for a job can be frustrating and demoralizing. Whether you’re looking for a career change or a better position or you’ve decided to return to the workforce post-retirement, it’s not unusual to feel uncertain or insecure when looking for a new job, especially given the prospect of being compared to younger candidates in the interviewing process. Remember, however, that your years of experience and expertise are extremely valuable. Here are some tips and tricks to boost your confidence when you land an interview.
- Turn Difficult Questions Around
During an interview, employers may throw you a curveball. For example, Yasmin Green, an executive at Jigsaw (formerly Google Ideas), told Business Insider that she likes to ask, “How would you make money from an ice-cream stand in Central Park?” The purpose behind the question is to see how creative candidates can be, and whether they can think quickly and critically. The worst answer is, “I don’t know.” A better response? You can say, “That’s a great question. Can I take a moment to think about this?” In the interviewing process, expect the unexpected! - Find Your Humour
If you’re asked about your age or an uncomfortable silence occurs during the interview, you can always break the awkwardness with a joke. Show them your shining personality, because interviewers want to know whether they’ll be able to work with you. If you have a quick wit or can tell a topical story in a funny way, you’ll also stand out from the crowd. - Know Your Stuff
Before an interview, find out all you can about the company, and don’t forget to check out its social media presence—look for it on Facebook and Twitter. You should get up to speed with—or at the very least, be aware of—any current technologies relevant to the positions you’re after. - Practice!
You can find a host of sample job-interview questions online. Take some time to ask yourself these questions and write your answers down on cue cards or in a notebook. Practice interviewing with a friend or your spouse or partner. It’s always better to be over-prepared!
Photo: iStock/AndreyPopov.