I hear it a lot from my clients: “I hate interviewing.” I get it. Interviewing, especially when our lifestyle ebbs and flows so much, can be nerve wracking. The key to nailing your next interview is knowing how to prepare. I look at prepping for an interview a little bit like studying for an exam. If you start early and take it step-by-step, hopefully, your A+ on the exam will come in the form of an offer letter. 

Here’s how you can prepare for your next interview:

1. Research 

Every great interview starts with research. Find out everything you can about the company: news reports, projects the company is working on, its mission/values, and its founding story. Check out the LinkedIn profiles of the employees who will be interviewing you. This foundation will help you understand the company culture and if it’s a good fit for you. You can also use the information as talking points in your interview. Hello, standout candidate! 

2. Prepare for the Tough Questions 

Once you’ve dug into the research, it’s time to practice some of those questions. You can find lists of common interview questions online to give you a running start. Practice your answers in front of a mirror so you get a sense of your demeanor when you answer. Be prepared to discuss every component of the job description and how your resume and experience demonstrate your qualifications. An example of a common tricky interview question is to share one of your weaknesses. There are strategic ways to answer a question like this since you want to be honest but still showcase your ability to thrive in the role. Check out this previous AWN article about how to approach this interview question. 

3. Pump Yourself Up 

Confidence shows, so before you open a Zoom meeting or drive to your interview, play that song that makes you feel on top of the world and stand in your power pose. At this point, you’ve done everything you can do to prepare, and now it’s time to show them what you’re made of.  

4. Impressions Last 

The cliche stands true for a reason—first impressions are lasting impressions. According to a recent study, more than 30% of interviewers know if they want to hire you within the first five minutes of the interview. Here are some tips that can make you stand out in the best possible way: 

• Dress the part, and when in doubt, dress one level up from the company norm. If you’re uncertain about the company dress standards, ask the human resources representative or the recruiter who scheduled your interview. 
• Show up early, whether that’s on Zoom or in-person. You don’t want to be too early, but showing up about 10 minutes early will show the employer you’re prepared and serious about the role. If you’re headed to an in-person interview, be sure to give yourself enough buffer time if you get lost, can’t find parking, or get stuck in traffic. If you arrive much earlier than expected, you can always circle the block or hang out in your car for a few minutes. 
• Avoid strong perfumes or colognes, signs of tobacco use, or anything that could be a distraction during the interview. 
• Make eye contact and follow the employer’s lead on handshakes and where to sit. 

Remember, an interview is a chance for you to understand if the company is a good fit for you as well. The employer doesn’t hold all the power, so be sure to ask questions to determine if the role and the company is the right fit for you. It’s also your business decision, should you get an offer. 

I once heard the saying, “It’s okay to be nervous; it means you care about the outcome.” Feeling nervous about your next interview is completely natural. Learn to consciously recognize your body’s response to stress, understand why you’re nervous, take a deep breath, and give it your best shot. At the end of the day, that’s all we can do. Go get ‘em! 

Looking for more career instruction? Check out all the posts by the Serving Spouses Team here.

Kyla Hensley is a Transition Specialist with the Serving Spouses Team at Hire Heroes USA. Her husband is active-duty U.S. Army, so she understands the challenges and rewards of military life. She is an active member of the military community and volunteers her time to be involved in local family readiness efforts. Her career working with the military began at an Army Education Center in Germany. She then worked with the Army Career Skills Program and has since found her home with Hire Heroes USA. She has dedicated herself, personally and professionally, to supporting our service members and their families. She enjoys getting to know her clients individually to help them achieve their career goals and find meaningful work the same way she has. She has helped 250 veterans and military spouses find employment since joining Hire Heroes USA in 2019.