The corporate world has become more competitive than the Olympics. Everyone is looking for a quality workforce, people who can do more than just follow instructions given. Employers are looking for much more than just credentials, if anything, nearly everyone in the corporate world today has papers to distinguish them in their academic performance. Many people have the credentials to give them an edge.

However, if your reading this, chances are you fall into the same category, after all, the first thing anyone does before applying for a job is checking whether they qualify for the job or not. There has to be something that sets you apart from everyone else. To stay ahead of the game you need to know what to expect before you go in for the interview, after all, you cannot defeat an enemy if you’re not equipped with the right weapons.

The following is an intricate discussion regarding how to prepare for an interview using methods that are guaranteed to give you a clear edge and an advantageous playing ground.

Psychological Preparation

Think Positively

It’s all in the mind. You’ve probably heard the phrase more times than you can remember, but the reason it tops this list is that it’s the most important thing to know. How you present yourself before an interview panel ultimately starts with what’s going on upstairs. Your mind can work for you or against you, and this can depend on what you have been feeding your subconscious.

If your belief patterns tend to lean toward the negative, and all you can think to yourself is “I can’t…” then you need to have a positivity reprogramming. Science today has proven that people tend to attract situations in their lives according to their belief patterns.

It is also known as a self-fulfilling prophecy in psychology. If you believe you will fail, you will fail. If you feel you will succeed, you will with flying colors.

Body posture and the mind

For a long time, people have believed that it was the mind that controls the body and that the communication between the mind and body was one way, with the mind being the principal speaker. Newer research in neuroscience has shown that how you position your body has an impact on your brain and mental functionality.

The way we move our bodies not only affects how other people see and perceive us, but it also has an influence on our moods, habits, and mental productivity. Several types of research have been launched in this area, and you might find it hard to believe how much you can convince people just buy using your body language.

Sitting up straight in a power position right before the interview is said to improve your positivity and lower your anxiety levels, making your mind more alert. A straight posture allows you to articulate yourself much better than if you sat slouched or even with your hand to your cheek or chin. Remember when you sit up straight your mind gets a clear signal from the body that the powerful you is in control; this makes you more confident and gives you an edge.

Basic Interview Preparation

Research the organization

Aside from the psychological aspects of how to prepare for an interview, there are other logistics required. As mentioned earlier, you cannot fight against an unknown enemy, similarly getting the necessary information regarding the organization you are aspiring to join makes you more prepared since it gives you a competitive edge over people with less knowledge.

Compare your skills and credentials to the job’s specifications

Applying for a job you are not qualified for most probably means you won’t get past the shortlisting stage. However, once you have been called in for an interview, it is always good to consider throwing in anything that makes you outstanding, simply anything that is an addition to what the prospective employer is looking for that might be useful and productive.

Plan what to wear

how to prepare for an interview

Another thing you need to know on how to prepare for an interview is dress code; it is related to the psychological aspects previously discussed. First impressions are formed within seconds of meeting someone. You don’t want the panel forming certain negative opinions about you before you even get the chance to say all the smart things you know.

Carefully do a background check on colors and the moods that they relate to as well as whether or not certain colors are affiliated with the organization or firm. You don’t want to overdo it, again your choice of whether to be formal or casual depends on the organization, you don’t want to turn up with a suit in a cuffed shirt and a tailored trouser at a firm where employees dress in jeans and t-shirts, the vice versa is even worse! Make sure you do your research on this aspect and have a backup prepared early just in case of an emergency.

Plan what to carry

Depending on what type of interview you’ve been called for there are certain things you need to plan before your arrival. Be sure to pack things like credentials, or your computer, maybe even props for a demonstration. Play is safe by creating a checklist of things you’ve been told to carry, as well as those you think you need. It gives an impression of preparedness on the panel.

how to prepare for an interview

Formulate and prepare responses

It is always good to imagine what you might be asked, things linked to the organization as well as things that can be applied through the use of the knowledge and experience you possess. If possible try a mock interview with a friend or a colleague to help you gain confidence and prowess, after all, practice makes perfect, and it is never advisable just to go in without at least practicing once or twice.

Plan, research the company, and have a  positive mindset. These are the key factors to a successful interview, good luck!

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