After applying to job after job, you’ve finally received an invite to interview.

Now, it’s time to prepare so that you can get your dream job. Besides practicing your elevator pitch and answers to common job interview questions, there are two other important things you should do before your interview.

Focus on making a solid connection

Prior to the interview, do your research. Look at the company’s site in its entirety, read their press releases, and get familiar with any articles that mention them in the media. By doing this, you’ll be more aware of the company and it’ll be easier to flow during the interview conversation.

Next, if you can find out the name of the person interviewing you, do some research on them and learn as much as you can. This will help you understand a little bit about their background and will help you establish a bond with them later.

Lastly, when you’re sitting in front of the interviewer, you want to have an authentic and fun conversation. You don’t want to robotically and blandly talk to them as they ask you questions. Instead of letting them do all of the talking and questioning, pose questions and drive the conversation from time to time during the interview.

Once you leave the interview, don’t forget to send a thank you note (this will never go out of style).

Act like you belong

Oftentimes during an interview, nerves and over-excitement gets the best of us. And that’s natural— remember you’re human. However, you’ve got to keep your confidence high and fearlessly walk in and interview like you belong there.

People that are confident are the most sought after hires, and you want to show the hiring manager that you are that AND more.

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