For the third time in 18 months, I was preparing for more interviews for yet another new position. At 25 years old, I had only ever had two jobs. Now all of a sudden, I’m up to five and I’m just 27!
I get it, job-hopping is not a good look – trust me I know. But over the past 6 months, I’ve realized that being happy is so much more important than one or two short-term jobs. I’ve haven’t been shy about sharing my struggles with knowing what I want to be when I grow up, and many of you have followed along through the whole journey. A few things I am certain about – I love lifestyle and wellness and I love working with people, making face-to-face connections.
New Opportunity
About a month ago, I was preparing to interview for the Director of Independent Living at the senior living community I worked at previously. It was scary and I was even more nervous than when I applied for it the first time. This time was different, the company I was currently working for was going through a huge transition and everything was crazy. I knew that this new position would lead me back to this great company and that I would be doing so many amazing things that I love to do. I would be making a difference in the lives’ of these residents. The pressure was seriously on.
Interview Tips
Preparing for interviews and new positions isn’t easy, but there are a few tips I’m going to share that have made my experiences not so dreadful.
- Know the job description inside and out.
- Highlight some strengths on your resume that are specifically in the job description. Use words and phrases from the job description during your interview.
- Take notes of the most common interview questions and write out exactly how you’d answer them. Although there’s no way to know exactly what your interviewer will ask, writing out some basic questions and answers will help you feel more confident about what you know about the position.
- Update your resume using a career center template.
- If you’re still in college or fresh out of college, use your career center! Many universities have alumni centers that will allow to you use the career centers for resume assistance! Take advantage of this!
- Plan your outfits accordingly.
- Whether it’s a phone interview or in person interview, your attire can make or break your impression. Not only does dressing well look good, but it makes you feel good, too!
- It’s common for people to wear black and grays for interviews, but I’m never afraid to have a pop of color with a statement necklace. For some reason, I always feel like colorful outfits show more colorful personalities.
- Fight off nervous energy.
- Plan a workout the morning of or after your interview. This is by far the best way to work off those nerves!
- During an interview, if I feel nervous, I fold my hands together and squeeze them tightly in my lap. This is my little secret to help get rid of those nerves, without being obvious!
- Use good posture and smile!
- Regardless of what the job is, you’re going to have to smile. Show your interviewer that you really are kind to your core and keep the RBF away for the time being.
- Good posture will help you feel and look more confident – and this is always a good thing!
- Be organized!
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- Plan out your questions an answers, outfits, and schedule your interviews and practice times using a detailed planner. Y’all know how much I love my Day Designer Planner. There’s still time to grab your 2018 planner so get yours today!
- Once you’ve got the job, be sure to stay on top of your game with my favorite kate spade spiral notebook
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Results
They say the best way to improve your interview is with practice and maybe that’s what’s happened to me. Previously, an interview and first day of work would make me physically sick. I would literally be sick to my stomach, feeling like I had a bug every single time I interviewed or started a new job. Getting some practice has allowed the development of the tips I shared above.
Anyway, I got the job and I couldn’t be more excited about this position! I’ll be working for the same great company I worked for last year at this time in one of my dream positions. I am so ready for the challenges and satisfaction working with senior citizens will bring. Get ready for career advice and more wellness advice!
Your Turn!
What are you some of your favorite tips for interviewing? How do you prepare for a new job?