That Job Interview? You've Got This. Here's How to Nail It.

You did it. Your resume stood out from the pile, and you landed the interview. After a mini-celebration, a new feeling probably starts to creep in: nerves. Job interviews can feel like a high-stakes performance where you’re trying to say all the right things. But what if you thought of it less as a test and more as a conversation?

An interview is a two-way street. Yes, they’re figuring out if you’re a good fit for them, but you’re also figuring out if they’re a good fit for you. With the right preparation, you can walk in with confidence, ready to show them why you're the perfect person for the job.

Do Your Homework (It's Not Graded, but It's Important!)

Before you even think about what you're going to wear, you need to

research the company thoroughly.  This is non-negotiable. Understand their mission, their values, and what they actually do. Read their website, look up recent news articles, and get a feel for their company culture. The more you know, the more confident you'll feel and the more you can tailor your answers to what they're looking for.

Prepare to Talk About Your Favorite Subject: You

Interviews often revolve around a few key questions. It’s a good idea to practice your answers so you’re not caught off guard. In The Other Birds & Bees, Phe’s mom gives her some great advice on how to approach these common questions.

Here are a few you should definitely prepare for:

• "Tell me about yourself." This isn't an invitation to share your life story. Craft a short, professional summary of your background, skills, and why you’re excited about this role.

  
  

• "Why are you interested in this company?" This is where your research pays off. Talk about specific things that impress you about their work or mission and connect them to your own skills and passions.

  
  
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  "What are your strengths and weaknesses?" For strengths, focus on skills that are relevant to the job and have specific examples ready.  For weaknesses, be honest but strategic. Choose a real weakness that isn’t critical for the job and show how you’re actively working to improve it.

  
  

Dress the Part and Show Your Enthusiasm

It's always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. Business casual is usually a safe bet. Make sure your clothes are clean and fit well.

Most importantly, let your passion shine through! Be confident, make eye contact, and show them that you're genuinely excited about the opportunity. Companies want to hire people who are enthusiastic and believe in what they do.

Don't Forget to Ask Questions!

At the end of the interview, you'll almost always be asked, "Do you have any questions for us?" Your answer should always be "Yes!" Asking thoughtful questions shows that you're engaged and seriously considering the role.

Ask about the company culture, the team you’d be working with, or what a typical day looks like.  This is your chance to get the inside scoop and decide if this is truly the right place for you.

An interview is just a conversation to see if there's a good match. Prepare, be yourself, and show them the awesome person you are. You’ve got this!