Interview Tips and Steps to Success
Stand out in your job search with step-by-step guidance from our recruiting team.
Follow these pointers on your path from application to interview.
Step 1: Get noticed with a well-crafted resume and cover letter.
When applying for a position, the importance of submitting a focused and well-organized resume and cover letter with your application cannot be over emphasized. These documents give recruiters and hiring managers a snapshot of who you are and the type of employee you would be if hired.
Check out our tips for creating a resume and cover letter that will set you apart from the competition and help you secure an interview for your dream job.
Make your first impression count with a strong 30-second elevator pitch.
Your elevator pitch is a concise and engaging 2-3 sentence introduction that you can deliver to a recruiter or hiring manager in the span of an elevator ride – typically about 30 seconds. It’s a way to quickly and effectively say who you are, what you do and why an employer should be interested in what you have to offer. Your message should be clear, compelling and leave a lasting impression. Whether at a career fair or interview, a well-delivered elevator pitch can open doors and spark further conversations.
Step 2: Follow a winning regimen for interview preparation.
Once you have secured the interview, prepare to knock it out of the park. Time and energy dedicated to thoughtful preparation will pay off on the day of your meeting. Research the company, reflect on your skills and strengths and practice your answers to common interview questions so you will feel confident and ready to shine on the day of your meeting.
Here are some ways you can prepare to ace your next interview.
Prepare for these 7 common interview questions.
- Can you tell me a little bit about yourself?
- Why are you interested in working for our company?
- Why are you interested in this position?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Can you tell me about a time when you dealt with a conflict at work? How did you resolve it?
- Tell me about a time when you set a goal for yourself. How did you achieve it?
- Why should we hire you over other qualified candidates?
Step 3: Stay ahead of the competition on interview day.
There are things you can do on the day of your interview to increase your chances of getting a job offer or moving on to the next step in the process. Impress your potential employer by actively listening to questions, aligning your skills and experiences to the job specifications and asking thoughtful questions about the role.
Here are some recommendations to help you stand out and make a great impression.
Dress for success in your interview.
Dressing well for an interview shows respect for your potential employer and your interest in the role. If you’re not sure what to wear to the meeting, reach out to human resources or the talent acquisition team and ask! It's a welcome question that reinforces your enthusiasm and preparation.
Here are some guidelines to follow when you are planning what to wear to your interview.
Step 4: Finish strong! Complete the interview process by following up.
After your interview, follow up with a thank you note or email to show your appreciation for the opportunity to meet with the company and to express your continuing interest in the position.
Here are 7 keys to a professional and polished message:
- Start with a friendly greeting.
- Thank the interviewer for meeting with you.
- Highlight 2 – 3 key points from your discussion.
- Reiterate your qualifications for the role.
- Express your continued interest in the company and position.
- End with a polite closing.
- Proofread your message before sending it!
Ready to do it?
Then Dollar Bank is ready for you. Right now, we’re full of opportunities for people looking to make a difference in the lives of others. In the process, we’ll make a difference in your life, too.