If you have a handle on these essential interview tips and to-dos from seasoned hiring managers—for before, during, and after your interview—you’ll automatically set yourself up for success. Once you’ve brushed up on the company and industry, do some sleuthing into your interviewer’s career background. Not only will this give you general context, but it could also provide key talking points. People love making connections. You might learn through their LinkedIn that they attended the same university as your brother or started their career working for someone you’ve always admired (perfect to mention and ask about in your interview if the opportunity comes up). Not only are questions a sign of intelligence and interest, but they’re also a good way for you to better evaluate the opportunity. Turkewitz recommends asking the hiring manager why they decided to come to the company. If the interviewer is quick and enthusiastic to answer, it’s a great sign the employees are happy to work there. But if they’re unable to really answer the question, it could be a red flag that that company might not be somewhere you really want to work. And be wary of lying about your current salary to receive a sizable pay jump. It’s a very small, very connected world, and people within your industry can easily find out what you’re earning, so it’s always best to tell the truth. “There are two smart ways I’ve seen this question handled,” says Bucky Keady, the SVP of executive search at Media Link. “The first is to reveal your current salary, but be clear about your thinking: ‘I’m earning X, but I’m not interested in making a change unless I can hit the Y mark.’ Or, instead of answering the question directly, say, ‘I’d like to be considered for the best salary possible for this position, because I feel my experience checks off most of the boxes.’” RELATED: Are You Paid What You’re Worth? Here’s How to Figure Out What You Should Be Earning If you can’t find something organically, fall back on gratitude: “Thank you so much for taking the time to meet with me.” And you might be wary of coming off too eager, but Turkewitz actually recommends letting the interview know, point blank, that you want the job: “Enthusiasm is half the battle,” she says. Want to go the extra mile? Follow up with a handwritten thank-you note. It’ll show you’ve got your stuff together and are willing to put in the time and effort to show gratitude—that’s huge. RELATED: How to Find Companies That Are Hiring Work-From-Home Employees
