A Guide To Preparing For An Interview
Is the only thing standing between you and a potential customer an interview? If you answered yes, you've arrived at the right location. Even in the world of independent work, interviewing is crucial. It's critical to establish a strong first impression if you want clients to trust you with their tasks.
That being said, preparing for an interview requires more than just Googling lists of popular interview questions. Take the time to prepare for an interview ahead of time so that you have a better chance of landing the job you want. What are the best ways to prepare for an interview, though?
Research the Client
Remember that the interview process isn't only about letting the client get to know you; it's also about getting to know the client. Make sure you conduct as much study on their product or service as possible so you can go into the interview knowing exactly what they do.
This will also enable you to ask intelligent questions when the time comes, ensuring that working with the customer is a suitable fit for you. If your potential client is an individual or a small business, you should look for their professional social media pages to learn more about them.
Examine the client's website and the 'about' section if the company is well-established. You will have a clearer and more complete grasp of the business this way. If you can't locate precise information on the client, at the very least, look into their industry.
Understand the client's requirements.
When you're interviewing as a freelancer, you're ultimately trying to persuade a consumer (your client) to buy something from you (use your services). The easiest method to do this is to figure out exactly what the customer wants and then explain how you can help them.
Examining the job posting (if you have one) is an important component of interview preparation. Consider what the client wants and needs in a candidate when you evaluate the task description.
List your abilities and knowledge, as well as the personal and professional traits that the employer is looking for since this will help you land the job. Nothing is more frustrating than going into an interview without a thorough understanding of the position you're applying for.
Use Your Network
You are not required to prepare for your interview on your own. You could want to reach out to coworkers to see if they have any suggestions. If you know someone who has previously worked with the client, you should look at their brands to get a sense of what to expect during the interview process.
Conduct a Test Run
Spend some time rehearsing how to respond to interview questions. This will help you relax so you don't get nervous and rummage through your brain for replies during the interview.
Prepare for the interview by practicing with a friend or family member. This can help you feel more at ease during the actual interview.
If at all possible, perform the practice interview in the same way as the real one. If your interview will be conducted over the phone, for example, have a buddy call you so you may practice answering questions over the phone. Review frequent interview questions and responses, and consider how you'll respond, so you're prepared to give an excellent response.
Perform a technical check
Technology, as wonderful as it is, does not always function flawlessly. The last thing you want to happen during your interview is for something to go wrong. If your interview will be conducted through video chat, be sure you are familiar with the program. Check that your camera, microphone, and speakers are all in functioning order so that you can be properly seen and heard.
Dress to Succeed
If you're interviewing for a freelance job, there's a good chance you'll be doing it through video chat, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't dress to impress. Even if you're working digitally, you should dress properly — at least from the waist up.
Prepare your clothes ahead of time so you don't have to worry about what to dress on the day of the interview. By all means, have a ready-to-wear interview attire on hand at all times. Never put off preparing an outfit until the last minute to avoid having to decide what to wear on the day of the interview.
Whatever type of job you're applying for, keep in mind that your initial impression is crucial. If you're heading to an interview for a professional position, make sure you're dressed professionally.
Send a thank-you note as a follow-up.
Reiterate your interest in the position in a thank-you note or email after an interview. Your thank-you letter serves as a follow-up "sales" letter as well. Explain why you desire the job, what qualifications you have, how you can contribute to the team, and so on.
The thank-you note is also an excellent opportunity to mention anything you may have missed during the interview. You can also use this opportunity to express your delight at the prospect of working with the client.
Last Thoughts
Interviewing as a freelancer differs slightly from applying for employment in the corporate environment. Nonetheless, the procedure should be done seriously in order for every customer you meet to want to engage you. If you're looking for more ways to grow your freelance business, we've got you covered. Check out this article for tips on how to build together a strong freelancing resume.
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