With today’s high competition for jobs, landing an interview is a major accomplishment. But interviews can be stressful no matter how many times you’ve been through it and interviewing for a technical job can be an even scarier prospect. Proper preparation is the best way to help overcome your fears and increase your chances of landing a great IT job. Successful job offers are direct results of effective preparation and planning so you should take time to perform research, define your strategy, and prepare for the interview. Here are some tips that can help you make a great impression and land your next IT Job.
Do Your Homework
Before you go on the job interview, it’s important to perform research on the company and industry. Use the Internet to discover as much information as you can. Search both Google and Google News to find out what the company does; read press releases and annual reports and be familiar with recent developments in the industry. Also, visit the company’s website to learn about its main products and services. Review the company mission statement and company history and culture, as well as information about the management.
Use Social Media and Networking Sites
Check the company’s Facebook and Twitter. Become a Fan on Facebook and follow it on Twitter. Also, use LinkedIn to find more information on the company, review your interviewer’s profile to get insight into their job and their background, and find connections that can give you positive recommendations. Use your connections and speak to employees and other contacts, such as IT recruiters, with inside knowledge to acquire strategic information that will enable you to speak knowledgeably and offer valuable insight during your interview.
Get an Interview Edge
Be prepared to engage in various types of interviews. If it’s a technical interview, you may have to interview with technical people and expect a wide variety of questions that range from common interview questions to technical questions relevant to the job you are applying for. The whole point is for the interviewers to determine if you have the technical skills and if you are someone they would want to work with. Before the interview, thoroughly analyze the job description and identify key skills and be prepared to discuss how you meet the job requirements and why you would be a good match. Share past successes and accomplishments with specific and measurable results and match them to what the company is looking for. When interviewing for technical jobs, it’s very important to demonstrate high competence and functional skills coupled with a willingness to learn and share knowledge.
Look and Act the Part
In the IT industry, some companies are lax with work attire, however, candidates should err on the conservative side. Make sure your appearance and interview attire is professional and appropriate for the type of firm you are interviewing with. Organizations want confident, professional employees with technical skills and strong people skills. Confidence when coupled with your technical abilities will make you a much stronger candidate. Looking and acting the part in an interview sends a strong message to IT recruiters or potential employers that you will be able to perform on the job.
In today’s IT job market, competition for jobs is keen. A productive interview needs to be well-researched, planned and implemented. Preparation will not only make you feel more confident but can also generate positive results. Come prepared, relaxed, and make the most of the opportunity to highlight your skills, experience and personal strengths and you’ll be hearing the words, “You’re hired!”