How to Ace Your Interview

You finally received the confirmation email!

That’s right; the interview time is set!

All that’s left is to ace your interview!

But, what will you wear?

How will you answer that final question, “Do you have any questions for me”?

No problem! FocusITstaff is here to help!

We have 5 tips to help you ace your interview and secure the job.

First, it’s important to know that many interviews within the technology industry will come in three different stages.

Stages 1. Technical phone or video interview

Stage 2. Coding assignment

Stage 3. Onsite whiteboard interview

Now that we have clarified the 3 phases of the interview process, here are your interview guidelines.

Do Your Homework:

Take the time to research the company.

  • Before your interview, take some time to review the company’s website and LinkedIn profile.
  • Learn about the company’s history and the people who make up the executive team.

Tap here to get the inside scoop from GlassDoor on how to put on your detective hat and investigate potential employers.

Now that you have done your homework on the company, what should you wear?

Here is a list of do’s and don’ts for interview attire:

Do’s

  • Style your hair in a professional and tidy manner.
  • If you plan to wear makeup, make sure it is natural.
  • Wear a professional suit, blouse, or button-up shirt.

Don’ts

  • Wear heavy makeup or strong cologne.
  • Avoid bright-colored and trendy shoes.
  • Wear clothes that are wrinkled, stained, or have an odor.
  • Style your hair in a way that will need constant adjustment.

Tap here to watch Indeeds latest video tutorial, “What NOT to Wear (Interview Edition).”

Practice Makes Perfect 

Candid responses are great, but it is also great to practice your response to basic questions your interviewer will ask you.

  • How would you solve x technical problem?
  • What steps do you take when debugging code?
  • What is your strongest coding language?

Click here to read the top 17 interview questions from roberthalf.com.Roberthalf is a competitor. Use this from Dice instead https://insights.dice.com/interviews/

If you are on time, you are late!

We all know about the bad traffic. However, this isn’t the time for excuses.

Suppose the hiring manager requests you come in at 9 AM for your interview. Your goal should be to arrive by 8:30, allow yourself 15 minutes to find the correct office building, and be seated and waiting for your meeting by 8:45.

 Avoid These Things During Your Interview

  • Rambling when answering the questions.

  • Fidgeting with your keys or mobile phone and other distractions.

  • When asked about your previous employers, be positive – even if it’s difficult. Come prepared, so you don’t get caught off-guard and say something you’ll regret.

Click here to take a peek at the full list of pitfalls from Indeed.

 Ask These 3 Questions

We all know that during the last moments of your interview, the hiring manager will ask you, “Do you have any questions for me?” Instead of responding with “No, thank you for your time,” you can use this moment as an opportunity to show the interviewer that you are engaged and focused.

Here are 3 questions you can ask:

  • What does your ideal candidate embody?

  • If I started this position tomorrow, what would be my first priority?

  • Based on what you’ve seen, can you see me being successful in this role?

Are you ready to find your next job opportunity? Then, call our office at 770-937-0410! Our recruiters specialize in results!

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