Before your palms get all sweaty and you feel your stomach turning in anticipation just thinking about interviewing, explore these 4 tactics in your interview preparation.
1. Come Prepared:
As a veteran, you know all about gathering intel and doing your recon prior to a mission. So, put those skills to work and learn about your interviewer! LinkedIn most likely has some great information about the individual you will need to impress to land your job. On that note, make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to par as well! Learn more here: 20 steps to a better LinkedIn Profile in 2020. Be sure to learn as much as you can about the company history, its missions and visions, and culture. The company isn’t just interviewing you, you are also interviewing the company. Make sure you have 2-3 questions written down to ask your interviewer. This shows that you are prepared and engaged, and helps you determine if you are a good fit for the company culture.
2. Practice, Practice, Practice:
Many jobs require someone who can think on their feet. As a veteran you have already mastered this skill and this gives you an edge on the competition. Like an old supervisor once told me, you don’t need to get ready, if you STAY READY! Check out these example questions and answers to commonly asked questions during an interview: LinkedIn Interview Prep, and Guide to Answering the Most Common Interview Questions,
One of the best ways to prepare for an interview is to practice with a professional. Find someone who knows what questions to ask, and can give you honest feedback. We recommend Patriot Resume Service as our go-to interview coach. Their staff of Veterans know how to put on just enough pressure to make sure when you are ready to ace your interview.
3. Consider your non verbal communication skills:
It sounds basic, but at times it can be challenging to remember basic nonverbal communication factors like smiling, posture and eye contact. Studies have shown that 55% of communication is body language or non verbal communication. You aren’t speaking to a Drill Sergeant when interviewing so don’t be afraid to show off your non verbal skills! Just like practicing the questions you might get thrown your way, put some time into practicing your non-verbals. For more info review this video: 7 body language tips to impress at your next job interview
4. Dress for Success:
In an interview situation, you’re marketing yourself as a product, and you want and need to have the best image possible. With that in mind, it’s ok to ask about the company’s dress policy when you are first contacted about an interview. I wore a uniform to work for 20 years! When I prepared for a job interview for the first time and peered into my closet, I felt panic. I did a little research and Salute2Suite, an organization that supports veterans by offering professional attire services. Mention Wingman Recruiting Solutions to receive a great discount! I would also suggest checking out a recent article by Indeed, What to Wear: The best Job Interview Attire
Lastly, be confident! You got this!
Have more suggestions, lessons learned, questions, tips and tricks?
We invite you to comment!
Wingman Recruiting Solutions is a veteran owned and operated company. We support veteran job seekers! To partner with us, register on our site and check out our jobs.
