Searching for a job can be stressful. Securing an interview offers a different set of challenges. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to show you’re the best candidate for the position. Here are four tips to help you knock out your next job interview.

Prepare

Research the position, interviewer and business through the company website, social media, Google and company contacts so you can knowledgably ask and answer questions. Study potential interview questions and tailor appropriate answers to show how your skills and accomplishments make you best suited for the position. Quantify how other organizations benefitted from hiring you and how you can provide similar advantages for another employer.

The day before your interview, call the company to ask what the dress code is for your interview. Ensure your clothes are clean and ironed and your shoes are polished. Print multiple copies of your resume and a reference list to hand out. Have a notebook with two pens ready for taking notes.

Arrive 10-15 Minutes Early

If you arrive any earlier, you may look overly eager and frustrate the interviewer who’s busy with other tasks. If you get to the office earlier than anticipated, take a walk around the neighborhood or stop in a coffee shop. If you’re behind schedule, call or email the interviewer as soon as possible so they can remain engaged in other work. If you’re concerned about reaching your destination on time, map out your route and drive there in advance.

Connect With the Interviewer

Smile, shake hands and make eye contact when introducing yourself. Ask the interviewer how their day is going and what they’re working on. Draw on your research to ask questions about common interests you have. When talking, subtly match the interviewer’s speed, tone and gestures. Ask questions at the end of the interview to show you were engaged in the conversation and to learn about the next step in the hiring process.

When your interview is finished, thank the interviewer for their time. Mention how much you enjoyed the conversation and that you hope to hear from them soon. Ask for a business card so you can follow up.

Follow Up

Follow up within 48 hours of your interview. Send or email a thank-you note restating what you enjoyed best about your conversation and a few top benefits you’ll provide for the company. If the date passes that the interviewer said a decision would be made by, wait a week before following up with a phone call or email asking how the process is coming. If you don’t hear back, follow up again in a few days. If you still don’t hear back, move on to another opportunity.

Partner With a Leader Among Property Management Staffing Agencies

For help with securing an interview for your new property management role, reach out to the recruiters at NPM Staffing and work with a leader among property management staffing agencies.