So you’ve graduated. You spent thousands of dollars and a large portion of your life. Why?
You did it to get a high-paying job that matches your interests, skills, and education. However, before all of that happens, you will need to make sure that you come to an interview prepared.
Anyone who comes to an interview is likely to feel nervous, but being prepared will allow you to conquer this and approach an interview with a confidence. In preparing for the job interview, practice will be your best weapon. Practice job interview questions and answers until you can answer them naturally.
As a fresh graduate, you may feel at a disadvantage in an interview knowing that you don’t have experience. However, don’t let that discourage you. Remember that an employer would rather have a sincere and honest trainee over an employee who has 10 years of experience but is also a liar. This is why it is important to be prepared for job interview questions. Practicing gives you the confidence you need to calm yourself and recall all of those answers you came up during practice.
Which Questions Should You Practice, and How Should You Answer Them?
Question 1: "Tell me about yourself."
This is perhaps the most common question of any interview, and it needs to be answered carefully. When the interviewer asks this question, make sure that you showcase your skills, passion, and fitness with their organization.
Also, this is often the first question of an interview, so practice an answer that would best show how you are the perfect person for the job.
Question 2: "Why don't you walk me through your resume?"
In walking through your resume, focus on your skills and what you can do for your company. Avoid giving unnecessary details, as you want the interviewer only to remember that you are the right person for the job.
Question 3: What would you contribute to this organization?
The basis of this question is to test whether you are a good fit for their organization. Showing your strengths and how you can make the company better using your skills should be the focus of your answer.
Question 4: Why do you want to work for us?
They want to know if you are passionate about the job and if this is the job that you want to do, and not what you need to do.
Question 5: What do you do during your free time?
Any employer wants to know if his or her would-be employee is a good fit for the job. The interviewer wants to know how you are outside of work, whether you keep yourself healthy, whether you stay busy with productive activities, and so on.
How to present yourself during the interview
When it’s interview time, be sure to do all the necessary preparation, and as soon as you see the interviewer, brace yourself, breathe, come forward with confidence, offer your hand for a handshake and introduce yourself.
Final Note:
Most people go to an interview unprepared for an interviewer’s questions. Set yourself apart—practice job interview questions and answers. Be prepared with answers that will help you sell your skills, talents, and passion for the job. Avoid going through countless interviews and not getting the job you want!
