APU Careers Careers & Learning

Plan, Positivity, and Perspective: The 3 “P”’s of Interview Prep

By Jaymie Pompeo
Contributor, Career Services

Interview_TipsPreparing for an interview can be one of the most draining experiences you’ll have. If you’re an avid researcher like me, you’ve spent most of your free time stalking the company through their website, social media pages, and any other helpful source that Google pointed you towards. You’ve memorized your resume, rehearsed rhetoric for commonly asked interview questions, planned your outfit, and so on.

Sometimes, all the planning in the world doesn’t stop your nervous anticipation: your palms begin to sweat, doubt starts to creep in, and your nerves start to become increasingly agitated. If not controlled, the time and energy you’ve invested in this necessary preparation can easily go to waste.

Don’t worry! This can absolutely be avoided, with the right mindset and plan of action.

Arrive to the area 30-60 minutes early and establish a positive mental state. Whether you sit in silence to gather thoughts and emotions, go for a brisk walk, or listen to high power music, this is your time to mentally prepare as you see fit. In addition, you automatically avoid the anxiety and stress from being late and starting off your interview on a terrible note.

Give yourself a pep talk – you deserve to be there. Remember: your resume made the cut and the employer saw potential in you! Reminding yourself of your qualifications, the proud moments following your major accomplishments, and that your passion is in line with what the organization stands for will give you confidence. If your pep talk doesn’t do the trick, don’t be afraid to tap into your lifelines – call your best friend, significant other, or former colleague to remind you on how awesome and capable you are.

Shift your perspective on the interview experience. Most of us are intimidated by interviews because we feel like we’re the ones in the hot seat. Take some pressure off by realizing that you’re there to get to know the employer just as much as they’re getting to know you. Imagine you’re the type of person looking for an environment that fosters cultivating innovative solutions. Wouldn’t you be hesitant to sign up for an employer who is clearly a micromanager? Prepare to play the role of an interviewer – research the work environment, come prepared with thoughtful questions, and assess whether this is the right opportunity for you.

Regardless of the outcome, consider this an opportunity. No matter what, you’re always going to gain something. You’ll increase your industry knowledge, network with more professionals, and have a better idea of your skill sets. Even if you don’t get the job, you’re gaining valuable exposure and interview practice. The more interviews under your belt, the better equipped you’ll be to leave a positive impression and wow not only potential employers, but yourself!

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