Apex Systems Inc.

Preparing for an Interview

Having arranged hundreds of interviews for potential job seekers, we’re often asked for helpful hints on how to best “ace” our clients’ interview processes. Our answer is… Preparation!! Preparing yourself for any type of interview, situation, or questions will ensure that you’re never caught off guard. Here are some helpful hints on how to prepare for an interview:

• Know Your Resume – Re-familiarize yourself with past employers, roles, technologies, and employment dates. Managers will inquire about all sorts of details found within your resume, and your inability to recall these events can be viewed as a potential resume embellishment or lie.
• Analyze the Job Description – Although many job descriptions may not be as clear or complete as you would wish, take the time to understand the role and responsibilities potentially asked of you. This may also help you in preparing for potential interview questions.
• Study Up – We’ve seen many candidates walk out of technical interviews looking like they were run over by a truck. This is usually due to their lack of technical preparation. Take the time to review technical documentation, study guides, online interview questions, or technical assessments before interviewing for an extremely technical role. You can find many of the resources on the web or ask your recruiter for potential options.
• Prepare Your Answers in Advance – Even the best candidates struggle to recall specific situations and instances, especially in a stressful environment like an interview. A helpful tip is to recall 4 or 5 specific situations in which you were responsible for a favorable outcome. Once you’ve identified these scenarios, try to highlight them in a way that shows your teamwork, communication skills, determination, or ability to manage others. Having these scenarios handy will help you to quickly answer all types of behavioral questions.
• Learn about the Organization – Familiarize yourself with the client and their organization. A few minutes spent on the company website will show the interviewer that you are a well prepared candidate.
• "Do You Have any Questions?" – Most interviews end with the interviewer asking, "Do you have any questions?" Although you may not, a few general questions such as, "What makes a successful employee at your organization?" or "What are your company’s or group’s goals?" can go a long way in showing your interest in the position.
• Lay It All Out – Don’t forget your best suit, to print out a few resumes, identify directions, and bring a notepad and pen. If you lay them all out ahead of time, you’ll be sure to remember them when the time comes.

Every interview is different. Be prepared for anything!!