So you’ve got an interview soon … great!  Here are 3 quick and easy tips for what to do before your interview to give you the best success at landing that new gig.

1. Social Media Stalk

Ok, I mean the word “stalk” in the least creepy way possible!  Check out the people you’ll be interviewing with on LinkedIn, the most relevant professional social media site, and see if you have any commonalities – previous employers, same alma mater, mutual connections – and use those findings as a conversation starter.  Even if you don’t have commonalities – find something you think is interesting about them and ask them a question about it.  Your interviewer will be impressed that you did research about them and the personal interest you show in them will reinforce a positive association with you.

2. Make a Plan

You’ve probably been preparing WHAT you’ll say during the interview, but also think through the logistics of what you need to do to physically GET TO the interview.  These minor details might slip you up on the day of by making you late and they are easily addressed.  Look up the address, double check the location with the interviewer, ask GPS the best way to get there, or check the bus schedule, and/or make sure you have a ride. Be fully aware of how long it will take you to travel there and leave at least 10 -15 minutes earlier.

Also, make sure to print and bring a copy of your resume as well as a piece of paper and pen to take notes with and/or to bring written questions that you don’t want to forget.

3. Power Pose

If you haven’t seen Ann Cuddy’s TED Talk about body language, do it now.  She gives some incredible insight and powerful personal stories about how our body language can shape how others see us – AND how it can change how we feel about ourselves.  “Power Poses” are poses that display a show of confidence, think: the Superman pose.  Cuddy’s Talk describes that if someone isn’t naturally feeling confident, standing in a power pose for a minute or two can actually increase a feeling of confidence – the “fake it till you make it” argument.  I can attest to this strategy myself and recommend “power posing” right before your interview – in the elevator, in the bathroom, or anywhere you don’t feel silly standing like Superman for a couple of minutes!  Showing confidence increases likability – use your body language to tell your brain that you’re confident you’re going to nail that interview!

Do you have any tried and true methods for getting ready for an interview?  What’s worked best for you?

Check back with us in the next couple of weeks for more tips about what to do AFTER your interview!