How to nail that interview – bring the right tools.

You’ve worked hard to build a great resume and make yourself stand out from the crowd. Now that you’ve landed that interview, get ready to show them that you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Northwell Health recruiters have put together a list of their top tips for acing your next interview.

Be prepared.

It may seem like a small thing, but remember to bring your resume and depending on the position, bring your portfolio. Northwell Health Recruiter Agnes also advises you double check your resume before you leave for your interview, “Review your final resume to ensure information is up to date and spell checked.” In other words, come to the interview ready to demonstrate the best examples of your success. It’s also a good idea to know exactly what’s in your resume so you can refer to it without reading from it in the interview. Another part of being prepared? Arriving 10-15 minutes early will start the interview right.

Do your homework.

Be prepared by doing research on your prospective employer. A lot of research. Learn about the company, the department where you’ll be working and the role you’ll play in it. As Northwell Health Recruiter Alex says, “Use these as talking points to let them know why you would be an added asset to the organization. You can even use LinkedIn to do research on the person interviewing you. It shows you care about the position and will help you ask intelligent questions.”

Ask questions.

You’re not there just to be interviewed. You’re also there to interview your prospective employer. It’s the only way to know that it’s the right place for you. Specifically, ask questions about the culture of the department and the overall organization as well as expectations of your role. This is why doing your research is so important. It enables you to ask the right questions and show that you’re ready to contribute in a positive way.

Make a great first impression.

An interview shouldn’t feel like an interrogation. Northwell Health Recruiter Stephanie encourages candidates to, “Smile and let your personality show!” Dress professionally with a neat outfit, limited jewelry and no perfume or cologne. You don’t want the interviewer to be distracted from what you have to say. Always make eye contact. Remember to be courteous to everyone, from the hiring manager to the administrative assistant.

Be yourself.

Though you want to make a good first impression, it’s important to remember to be yourself. Never lie about your experience or oversell your capabilities. Northwell Health Recruiter Jennifer says, “Honesty is key – never misrepresent yourself.” Your best answers in an interview will be honest ones. Letting your true personality shine in a professional way will help you stand out.

Show your customer focus.

At any business, the most important thing is the customer experience – whether it’s a hospital patient or an organization’s internal customers. By emphasizing your passion for customer service, you will show that you have the right attitude for contributing to the success of your team, your department and the overall organization. The power of positive thinking and kindness is infectious. It’s what employers look for.

If you’d like to be part of an organization that is passionate about helping you be successful – from your very first contact, take a closer look at Northwell Health. There are always exciting opportunities at Northwell Health for those who are Truly Ambitious.