Preparing for an Interview in Recovery
Steps to Help You Feel Prepared and Confident in a Job Interview
Preparing for an interview primarily means taking time to consider your goals and qualifications relative to the position and employer. To accomplish this, you should perform research on the company and carefully review the job description to understand why you would be a good fit. Here is a list of steps you can take to prepare for your next job interview:
1. Carefully examine the job description
During your prep work, you should use the employer’s posted job description as a guide. The job description is a list of the qualifications, qualities, and background the employer is looking for in an ideal candidate.
2. Consider why you are interviewing and your qualifications
Before your interview, you should have a good understanding of why you want the job and why you’re qualified. Be prepared to explain your interest in the opportunity and why you’re the best person for the role.
3. Perform research on the company and role
Researching the company you’re applying to is an important part of preparing for an interview. Researching the company and role as much as possible will give you an edge over the competition. Not only that, but fully preparing for an interview will help you remain calm so that you can be at your best.
4. Consider your answers to common interview questions
While you won’t be able to predict every question you’ll be asked in an interview, there are a few common questions you can plan answers for. You might also consider developing an elevator pitch that quickly describes who you are, what you do, and what you want.
Examples of common interview questions:
Why do you want to work here? The best way to prepare for this question is to learn about the products, services, mission, history, and culture of the company. In your answer, mention the aspects of the company that appeal to you and align with your career goals.
Example answer: “I’d love the opportunity to work with a company that’s making a difference. Finding a company with a positive work environment and values that align with my own has remained a priority throughout my job search, and this company ranks at the top of the list.”
What interests you about this role? Employers ask this question to make sure you understand the role, and to give you the opportunity to highlight your relevant skills. It can be helpful to compare the role requirements against your skills and experience. Choose a few things you particularly enjoy or excel at, and focus on those in your answer.
5. Practice your speaking voice and body language
It’s important to make a positive and lasting impression during the interview process. You can do this by practicing a confident, strong speaking voice and friendly, open body language.
6. Prepare thoughtful questions for the interviewer
Many employers feel confident about candidates who ask thoughtful questions about the company and the position. You should take time before the interview to prepare several questions for your interviewer(s) that show you’ve researched the company and are well-versed about the position.
7. Conduct mock interviews
Just like public speaking, practicing interviews is the best way to relieve anxiety and improve your confidence. Practice may feel tedious, but repeatedly experiencing the interview process will make you more comfortable and help you give the right impression.
8. Print hard copies of your resume
Most employers ask for digital copies of your resume with the application, but they may not have easy access to it during the interview itself. Having copies to present to multiple interviewers shows that you're prepared and organized.
9. Prepare your travel arrangements
Job interviews tend to be stressful for most people for many reasons, but getting to the interview can be a challenge in itself. Prepare in advance to avoid challenges and arrive early.
10. Sell yourself
One of the biggest challenges in an interview is selling yourself. Most people are uncomfortable with this idea, but presenting yourself accurately and positively doesn't have to feel like a sale. When you prepare for a job interview, make note of your skills that relate to the role and think of how your experiences and abilities can contribute to the overall goals of the department and company.
11. Get ready to follow up after the interview
After your interview, you should prepare to follow up with the employer. Doing so reminds the employer of your conversation, shows them you are genuinely interested in the position and gives you the opportunity to bring up points you forgot to mention.
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Recipe of the week
One-Dish Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Ingredients
1 pound ground turkey
1 medium onion, chopped
1 shallot, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
1 cup chicken broth
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3 cups chopped fresh kale
Dash crushed red pepper flakes
1 medium ripe avocado, peeled and sliced
Minced fresh mint, optional
Directions
In a large skillet, cook turkey, onion, shallot, and garlic over medium heat until turkey is no longer pink and vegetables are tender, 8-10 minutes, breaking up turkey into crumbles; drain. Add tomato paste; cook and stir 1 minute longer.
Add sweet potato, broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, until sweet potato is tender, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add kale and red pepper flakes; cook and stir until kale is wilted, about 2 minutes. Serve with avocado and if desired, mint.