You’ve been invited for a job interview. That’s good news! You’re probably confident you’ll do well because you’re qualified for the position. But while you want to be confident during the interview, don’t let overconfidence keep you from preparing properly. The time you put into prepping for your interview will keep your anxiety at bay and give you a confident demeanor.

So, how exactly do you prep for a job interview? Well, there are a few things you can do to get yourself ready for the challenge. Remember, there will be other competent applicants. Follow these suggestions and give yourself the upper hand.

Arrive with an updated resume

When you update your resume, highlight your skills. Potential employers want to know what expertise you can bring to their company. It makes little sense to include pointless paragraphs about your objectives when your skills and accomplishments are what will get the attention of the hiring manager. Showcase your relevant experience and let them know what distinguishes you from the other candidates.

Dress to impress

No matter what kind of work you’re looking for, don’t dress down for the interview. While it may not be necessary to wear a suit if you’re a candidate for a light industrial job, it’s certainly not inappropriate. And if you’re applying for an executive position, anything but a suit would be inappropriate. If you have any doubts about what to wear, it’s better to err on the side of formality. Rule of thumb for interview clothing: straightforward and classic is safer than complicated and trendy.

Practice, practice, practice

Take the time to practice answering questions you’ll be asked by the hiring manager. You can find sample interview questions and answers on various internet sites. Look them up and start practicing. For better results, practice in front of a mirror so you can see your facial expressions and body language. Then, interview with a friend or family member. Keep practicing until you’re confident this is how you want to present yourself.

 Put Your Best Foot Forward

Looking professional in an interview, arriving prepared and having an attention-grabbing resume are critical components of landing your next job. Much of the work of convincing an employer you’re the best candidate is done by these three elements. Don’t forget them in preparing for the interview, and you’ll set yourself apart from the other candidates.

Find the right job and make your impression

Finding your way through the job market can be a tricky and time-consuming process. When you work with a staffing company, they can add significant value to your job search and your career. Stride Staffing’s goal is to build stronger connections between employers and individuals by doing staffing differently. Really. Contact us today or search for a new job here.