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MEN OF COLOR BLOG

A new study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the United Sates will add more than 11 million new jobs by 2030. If you’re looking for a new career path, there are plenty of opportunities available in a variety of sectors.

But to score your next job, you must perform well during the job interview. Ready to explore ways you can outshine the competition? Here are 5 tips to ace your next job interview.

1. Learn about the company. You’d be surprised at the number of people who don’t know much about the company when they interview for a job. Don’t make this mistake. Explore each company’s website, social media pages and press releases to gain additional knowledge.

2. Dress for success. The company that you are interviewing with may allow their employees to dress casually. However, you aren’t one of their employees yet. This means that you must arrive at the interview looking your absolute best. Here are a few grooming and presentation tips that may be helpful.

  • Make sure your hair is neat and clean.
  • Get a basic manicure or do your own.
  • Shine your shoes.
  • Use a lint roller or brush to remove lint and dust from your clothes.
  • Go easy on the cologne or skip it altogether. Fragrances may trigger an interviewer’s allergies.
  • If you have a mustache or beard, shape it up.

3. Rehearse answers to common interview questions. Your goal for each question should be to communicate how you can add value to the company. Ask a friend to help you practice answering interview questions. Explore Indeed’s Guide to Responding to Top Job Interview Questions.

4. Learn how to negotiate your salary. It is essential that you know the salary ranges for similar positions based on the industry, experience and location. If you research salary information in advance, you can negotiate with a prospective employer from a position of strength.

5. Read the job description and understand what the company wants for the position. Think about examples from your work experience that align with the job description. Share these examples during the interview.

6. Provide clear answers to each interview question. When responding to a question, be sure to stay on topic. Resist the urge to offer more information than necessary in an attempt to impress the interviewer. Apply the STAR method when crafting your responses.

  • S (Situation) – Provide a context for your story. Examples include where and when the story took place.
  • T (Task) – What was your role in the story?
  • A (Action) – What actions did you take in the story?
  • R (Result) – What happened as a result of your actions?

7. End the interview on a positive note. If you believe that you are a good fit for the job, ask for the position. Let the interviewer know that you are willing and available to accept the job if asked.

Experienced hiring managers conduct hundreds of interviews each year. It’s easy for them to spot a well-prepared candidate. By taking time to prepare for a job interview, you’ll be one step ahead of other candidates.

About Corporate Counsel Men of Color

Joining a professional organization such as Corporate Counsel Men of Color can help you connect with like-minded professionals. Ready to learn more about Corporate Counsel Men of Color? Enroll in our organization today.

Want to learn more about preparing for a job interview? Explore the following resources for additional information.

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