Interviews can be intimidating because you obviously want to put your best foot forward and land your dream job. While your resume may have gotten you in the door for the interview, what happens during that interview can make or break your chances of becoming the newest employee. Doing well on your interview and getting hired doesn’t have to be as difficult as you may think. Here are 10 tips to help calm your nerves and ace your next interview. 10 Interviewing Tips to Land Your Next Job 1. Be Extremely Prepared While this may seem like a no-brainer, be prepared. Some people go into their interviews unprepared. This can really lower your chances of getting hired. Besides doing your research on the company and your job expectations, rehearse your answer to typical job interview questions. Some common questions include: Why do you want to work here? What can you contribute to the position? How does your experience make you a good candidate? If possible, rehearse your answers with someone you trust. While you may rehearse the answers in your head, they may not sound as great when you actually say them. Ask for feedback about the pros and cons of your answers so you know what to improve upon. 2. Perfect Your Elevator Pitch Your elevator pitch is your big chance to introduce yourself in a compelling, yet concise way. Highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and career goals. Deliver your pitch with confidence and make sure it resonates with the company’s culture and job requirements. This pitch can help to set either a positive or negative tone for the rest of the interview, make it a positive one! 3. Don’t Expect Just One Type of Question Employers are looking for people who are real thinkers, so be prepared for out-of-the-box questions. This can include hypothetical questions that will force you to put yourself in a role in case you do get hired. Whatever questions you’re asked, be sure to answer in less than 90 seconds. When you answer, think of this pattern…situation, your action steps, and end result. This will get you moving in the right direction. Also, don’t speak outside of the question and don’t try to speak on subjects outside of the role. It can send the wrong message. 4. Don’t Exaggerate Your Qualifications While you should be proud of your accomplishments and qualifications, you shouldn't exaggerate them. Any employer will see right through this and will be less likely to hire you. 5. Understand the Role of Each Person Interviewing You Many times, interviews will involve more than one person asking questions at the same time. Be aware of each person’s role so that you can answer questions accordingly. A supervisor may want to know how you’re going to manage your time, while another colleague will want to know how you’re going to fit into the team. 6. Dress for Success Save the flip-flops for the beach and dress appropriately for your interview. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to be slightly more formal. Be sure all clothes are clean, ironed, and fit well. No matter how good you look on paper, looking professional in person will reflect positively on your work ethic. 7. Be Positive No one wants to hire a “Debbie Downer” with zero energy. Smile genuinely during your interview and make eye contact. Be enthusiastic about the job and your potential role in the company. This will be noticed and appreciated as long as it’s genuine. Also, think about any potential red flags, such as reasons for switching jobs and any gaps in employment. Be sure to answer questions about these topics in a positive way. 8. Highlight Your Unique Value Identify your unique skills, experiences, and personality traits that make you the candidate of choice and a valuable asset. Be sure to emphasize how these qualities align with the company’s needs and culture. 9. Have Some Questions of Your Own Prepared Asking important questions shows you’ve done your research and want to know more about the organization and the position. Be sure the questions you have are insightful and add value to the interview process. 10. Speak Clearly and Concisely Communication skills rank high for employers. They want to hire someone who can express themselves well without pausing or using slang. Speak well and clearly so that your interviewer will know that you are a good communicator and will bring this skill with you if hired. At the end of the interview, thank the person for their time. Be patient because the hiring process can be a lengthy one depending on the position and how many other candidates there are. Don't be discouraged if you don't hear back immediately. Follow up politely after a reasonable timeframe if you haven't received any updates. Good luck!