Timing is everything. It’s true in life and even more so when you’re interviewing for a new job. The prospect of a new job is exciting, and landing an interview gives you one step closer to a new job and a fresh start. A job interview is often the first time you meet a hiring manager or team member, so it’s important to make a great first impression. And as the saying goes, you only get one chance to make a first impression.
While it’s good to be prepared, you’ll want to make sure your first impression isn’t rushed. Arriving early in the morning for a job interview can disrupt the schedule, make you feel anxious, increase anxiety, and make the situation worse for everyone involved. That’s why I’m sharing tips on the best time to arrive at an interview so you can make a memorable first impression in the best possible way.
How long should you be for the interview?
It’s the night before your interview. You’ve mastered your job search, taken the hiring process slowly, and googled. what to wear for a job interview. Now all that is left to think about is the date of the interview and decide how early to show up for the interview. A good rule of thumb to follow for an interview is to arrive 15 minutes early. This will ensure that you arrive early while allowing more time to compensate for any delays, such as traffic, parking conditions, and finding a room. Showing up early in the morning also gives job seekers a chance to gather themselves before the interview and do any last minute interview preparation.
When your interview is in person
Recruiters and recruiters organize interviews when they do it for one reason; it works for their system. If they were 30 minutes or an hour earlier, they would have scheduled the interview. You will not receive a bonus if you arrive late. It can have the opposite effect and show that you are not paying attention during your interview or that you do not respect the interviewer’s time. If you find yourself in a situation where you have to arrive 15 minutes early, it’s best to pass the time at a coffee shop, in your car, or in a public place, like a park. entertainment, before entering the office.
Remember to schedule your appointment based on where you live and where the interview is held. If the company you are interviewing with has a large office and you may need more time to visit the campus and find suitable housing, be sure to account for That one. If you live in a small town and the company is small and easy to find, you may not want to arrive early in the morning and sit at the bus stop, especially if it will make you feel don’t worry. Asking questions about travel times, any possible traffic, parking conditions, walking to work, stopping to use the restroom, and any other details about your specific situation ahead of time. allow for a smooth experience on the day of your interview. . It also helps reduce stress and any nerves.
When your interview is virtual
If your interview is virtual, 15 minutes on time is still a good goal to aim for. This allows time to ensure that you can access the platform that supports your interview, and if you have technical problems, it gives you time to resolve them. You don’t want to leave your interviewer waiting to hear from you if you’re having technical problems before the interview because you didn’t give yourself enough time to get in. If everything goes swimmingly, you’ll have a few more minutes to prepare ideas, make feedback, and make sure your video background looks professional.
When you are given specific instructions
If your interviewer or recruiter has taken the time to give you specific directions on where and when to arrive, follow them. They don’t share the details to test you and see if you fail, but you need to listen because they give you a guide as to why. The office may have strict visitor rules that you need to follow, or there may be parking guidelines that you need to follow. Whatever the reason, read the instructions ahead of time (and often!) to make sure you don’t miss any critical details. If you do, it can show that you are not interested in detail, which can be a red flag for the interviewer.
What to Do When Waiting for an Interview
Much can be driven by the interview, such as your future career and lifestyle. And while interviews can be nerve-wracking and stressful, the last thing you want to do before entering your interview is focus on your anxiety and nervousness. There are more productive ways to spend the last minute before an interview than sitting in the living room worrying. Trust me, I know from experience. Here are a few ideas of what you can do when you are waiting for the interview that will help you walk into the room prepared and confident.
Remove any muscles
If you go over your travel time and find yourself with more than 15 minutes, take a few minutes to move your body. Movement helps reduce anxiety and stress. It can put you at ease before entering the office. Walk around the block to center your head and find the perimeter of the building. If the office isn’t within walking distance, hurry up and get in your car. If moving your body isn’t an option, move your car. Take a spin around to explore the neighborhood or jam out to your favorite pump track. No matter how you choose to move, make sure you pay attention to the clock so you can get back on time with 15 minutes to spare.
Create your answer
By now, you’ve probably learned your answers to the interview questions. But to make the most of your time, think through your answers to questions like tell me about yourself, what are your strengths, and why are you looking for a new job. Review what you included in your cover letter and resume and think about possible interview questions. Also, don’t forget to think How to answer salary expectations questions So you don’t get caught and declare a different number than what you really need. Going over your interview notes will help you feel more relaxed and confident once you walk into the interview.
Get your head in the game
In the final minutes leading up to your interview, the best thing you can do is prepare mentally. You’ve got time before the day to do the interview questions, research the company, and make a list of questions for the interviewer. You are as ready as you can be. Now is the time to visualize success. Think about how you are cracking the interview and answer each question clearly and confidently. If you enjoy meditating, do a quick meditation to clear your head and focus on your breathing. If not, sit still and quietly as you wait to enter your interview room. Trust the work you put in and most importantly, trust yourself. You are no more ready to interview for this job than you are now. Believe that. You have this!
