If you read any of our recent posts about new and open jobs, then this article is for you! Itching to apply? Haven’t experienced being a candidate in a few years? Keep reading below to find out how to refresh and prepare to be the best interviewer that you can be!

How to Prepare to Apply to New Jobs…

• As Early as Possible! Yes, that’s correct! If you have not yet started sending out applications, go ahead and do so today. Getting your name in the door or starting to reach out and utilize your network is essential to getting through the application process.
• Do Your Research: You absolutely must conduct research about all job opportunities! Many online platforms offer a variety of resources to explore jobs in certain industries, cities, levels of seniority and experience, etc. For example (to our students), Handshake is a common website where companies are given the opportunity to post their job opportunities on an online platform for college students. Applications may be as easy as clicking a button and submitting a resume – so make sure to exhaust all options here (especially on LinkedIn)! Remember, these are free resources sitting at your fingertips that you can access from the comfort of your home, so make sure to use them whenever they are available to you.
• Practice Your Elevator Pitch: Even if you feel that you will be able to produce an elevator pitch on the spot, we encourage you not to do so. With phone calls and interviews naturally come nerves, and nerves may lead to filler words, stuttering, stammering, and unprofessionalism when not practiced in advance. Keep your elevator pitch short and sweet, but definitely to the point! Include a brief intro to your experience, potential interests, and if there is time, a short reason as to why you were drawn to the company you are speaking with.
• Plan an Interview Outfit: Showcase your dedication and care for presentation by dressing in business casual or professional clothing. Regardless of if your interview is taking place through a screen or in-person at an office, you’re guaranteed to help yourself stand out by treating all interactions equally and dressing the part of the way you hope to be perceived – professionally. You’ll be surprised by the extent of commonalities between the two formats, so the more you prepare, the better.
• Be Ready Early: To anticipate inevitable technical challenges, like wavering Wi-Fi, poor connection, etc., make sure to log on much earlier than the anticipated interview so as to be able to mitigate as many barriers as possible. If you’re joining an interview in person, also make sure to leave an extra window of time to use the restroom, gather yourself, grab a glass of water, or even spend a few last minutes preparing for potential answers!