You’ve scored an interview for your dream internship or entry-level job. Nice work! Now it’s go time – time to prep so you can really ace that interview and wow the hiring manager.

I remember when I was trying to get my first “adult” job out of college. I was nervous but also wicked excited for a chance to get my foot in the door with a cool company. The night before my big interview I could barely sleep! My mind was racing about how to make the best possible first impression.

Looking back, there’s definitely a few things I wish I’d done to be even more ready to knock their socks off and prove I was the top candidate. And I want to share those with you so you can go in feeling confident and leave knowing you crushed it.

Do Your Research, Dude

You’ve heard it before, but seriously…knowing key facts about the company, department, and even the person interviewing you is clutch prep work.

Before my first post-college interview, I read a few pages about the company’s history and glanced at the job description. Not awful, but I could’ve done way more diligent research.

When the hiring manager asked me what appealed to me about the company, I regurgitated some generic statement from their website. Lame with a capital L! Pro tip: Dig into their social media, latest news mentions, leadership profiles, and anything else for useful intel to cite.

The more specific, genuine details you can reference, the better. It shows initiative, alignment with their mission, and that you care enough to come informed and thoughtful. Way better look than seeming clueless or indifferent, ya know?

Practice Out Loud Even If You Feel Silly

I cannot emphasize this enough, my friends. Practice answering likely questions aloud even if you feel mega awkward doing it solo!

In the days leading up to an interview, I always take some time to literally say my answers out loud. Verbalizing your thoughts is a totally different ballgame than just thinking them.

The first few times I tried practicing out loud, I felt so silly and uncomfortable hearing my own voice ramble on about my past experiences, strengths, and more. Push past that feeling! It’s truly the best way to identify holes or quirks in your responses so you can refine before the real deal.

Even better is if you can get a friend or family member to run through practice questions and mock interviews with you. But flying solo works too in a pinch!

Map Your Stories & Successes

Hiring managers and recruiters often ask you to describe specific examples that showcase valuable skills or traits. And it can draw a total blank when put on the spot – trust me, it’s happened to all of us!

Now every time I prep for an interview, I invest time mapping out key stories and project successes I can pull from to illustrate things like:

• A time I overcame a challenge
• When I had to flex my creative muscles
• Examples of leadership and collaboration
• Moments I solved complex problems

Take inventory of your proudest professional and academic achievements, challenging situations you helped navigate, glowing feedback you’ve received from past bosses and professors, and any other badass bullets you want to highlight.

Jot down concise yet vivid stories with the details surrounding each one. That way when you’re in the hot seat you’ve already prepped relevant, compelling talking points!

Bring The Right Tools…Literally

There are some key items beyond your stellar outfit that you should always – and I mean always – bring to an interview:

Extra copies of your resume. Sounds obvious but don’t risk assuming they have one handy or that you’ll just email it after. Have a few clean copies ready to leave behind just in case.

A portfolio with examples of your work. If you’re a designer, writer, developer or other creator, assemble relevant samples organized neatly in a folder or binder. Pick pieces that align with the type of work you’d be doing in the target role. Offer to walk through them to showcase your unique skills.

A notepad and pen. Taking quick notes conveys active listening, captures helpful details, and shows dedication to the interviewer’s time and responses. Jot down names you might need to followup with later plus key takeaways.

Thoughtful questions to ask them. Towards the end you’ll likely be given a chance to pose questions. Don’t waste this prime chance for a strong close! Ask smart, well-researched inquiries that show what matters to you about company culture, values, challenges and goals, day-to-day in the role, etc.

Okay, Showtime – Go Crush It!

Preparing well goes a long way when those pre-interview butterflies and nerves kick in. Following the tips above will help you tackle even the toughest questions, connect genuinely, and wow them with your skills and passion.

Remember to pace your speaking, make eye contact, sit up straight, and highlight why you’d be the perfect fit for the role and how you’d hit the ground running if they pick you.

You SO got this! Now strut in there and snag that dream job, superstar! Sending you lots of good vibes. Lemme know how it goes!!