5 Ways to Nail Your IT Job Interview!
Posted January 8th, 2019
The IT interview process can be grueling. Not only will you face challenging questions about your area of expertise, but you might also need to demonstrate your capabilities by completing a skills test. The entire process can be incredibly daunting. However, if you prepare properly, you can nail your IT interview.
If you have your eyes set on a coveted tech position, here are five things you can do to make sure your interview goes off without a hitch.
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Research the Role Extensively
The more you know about the job, the easier it is to prepare. First, it allows you to review the nuances of the position, giving you a chance to anticipate the kind of questions that may be asked based on the duties you would perform.
Second, it allows you to position yourself as being enthusiastic about the job. Candidates that come off as passionate are more likely to catch a hiring manager’s attention, so don’t discount the impact of being able to share details as it makes you appear more excited about the role.
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Learn About the Company
Similarly, researching the company itself often plays in your favor. Being able to share information about the business can help you stand out. For example, mentioning one of the company’s or hiring manager’s recent achievements, including details about the organization’s products or services in your answers, or noting relevant metrics that pertain to the business can all make you seem enthusiastic and well-informed.
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Find Out About the Interview Format
There are tons of interview formats out there. Aside from one-on-one and panel interviews, technical and group interviews are potential approaches the hiring manager may use.
If you are working with a recruiter, see if they can provide you with insight regarding which interview formats have been used in the past. If you applied to the job on your own, you might want to do some online research to see if anyone has shared those details. Alternatively, you can ask the hiring manager what to expect, though they may not divulge that information.
Since each interview format requires a different approach and mentality, knowing that you will encounter is beneficial. At a minimum, it prevents you from being surprised, ensuring you aren’t caught off guard right from the beginning.
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Review the Basics
Each IT specialty has a unique set of fundamentals. If you haven’t reviewed the ones that align with your target role recently, take some time to go over the basic before you interview. Otherwise, you may draw a blank on a seemingly simple question, and that won’t make a great first impression.
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Handle the Interviewing Fundamentals
For any interview, you need to make sure you dress appropriately, arrive on time, and have copies of your resume on hand. Additionally, you need to be ready to engage in a conversation, asking questions when you need clarification and speaking directly to the hiring manager when you reply.
Additionally, take some time to practice before your interview. This includes both your responses to common questions and any skills that may be tested, giving you a chance to refine your approach before it counts.
Need Help With Your Interview Prep?
By following the tips above, you can nail your next IT interview. If you are looking for more guidance, the team at Bayside Solutions can help. Contact us to discuss your questions about interviewing with one of our skilled recruiters today and see how our hiring expertise can benefit you.
