In today’s floundering economy, it is no secret that job-seekers need all the help they can get. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the United States unemployment rate reached 9.5% last month, rising by two percent since January 2009. If you have taken the first step towards preparing for a high-demand career by enrolling with Blackstone, congratulations! If you are ready to enter the job market, thoroughly preparing for the interview is key. So, in our quest to help you set yourself apart from the rest, here are some interview tips that you may have heard before – and maybe some that you haven’t.

Make Your Efforts Known
As you may already know, it is imperative to do research on the prospective company or organization pre-interview. However, you may not have thought to let your research do some of the talking. Try printing out some vital pages from the company’s Web site, and bring the material with you to the interview. Strategically place the pages in the front of your portfolio or binder. When you open up your binder to take notes or to pull out your résumé, the interviewer is sure to notice the printed materials with the company’s logo or website banner and will know that you have done your research. In short, don’t be afraid to let the employer know what you know. At the very least, he or she will appreciate your initiative and interest. In addition, if you know who your interviewer will be ahead of time, it never hurts to do your research on him or her as well. Find out information about their background and work history. This is just one more way to get a leg up on the competition.

Know the Job
It is important to be aware of the employer’s needs. Before the interview, review the job description and form tailored responses to questions the interviewer might ask. This will highlight the skills you can offer to satisfy the job’s requirements. Know the responsibilities that are associated with the position, and be sure to emphasize the qualities that uniquely qualify you to take on the job.

Be Positive
Make a list of five or more of your work-related accomplishments, and concentrate on those items during your interview. Not only is this tactic a confidence booster for you, but it is also an effective way of drawing attention to your attributes and avoiding negative topics.

Keep Your Responses Short and Concise
Be straightforward and clear in your responses, but avoid volunteering any extra information. Unless the interviewer specifically asks about your personal interests, leave out any details regarding your private life. Concise responses will showcase your ability to be direct and focused.

Project Confidence
Talk as if you already have the job. Use phrases like “I will” instead of “I would” and “I can” instead of “I could.” This will show that you have thought seriously about a future with the company/organization. In addition, it will demonstrate your confidence in your abilities and your readiness to take on the responsibilities of the position. If you can envision yourself doing the job, you will have no trouble convincing the interviewer that you can do the job. 

Don’t Do It!