HR interviews are just another term for a regular Wall Street job interview. This is the most common and standard type of interview that you’ll be faced with when applying to nearly any kind of job in the corporate world. These interviews are conducted so that the company can learn who you are, getting a better sense of your personality and your skills.
Think of these interviews as the elimination round. They are likely sitting down with a multitude of applicants, screening each one individually to determine who would be the best fit for the team. When you are invited to this kind of interview, get excited – but also be prepared.
Before the Interview
Preparation starts well before the actual date of the interview. It is never a bad idea to come up with an execution plan so you aren’t caught off-guard by any questions or statements during the interview itself.
Here are some tips to get you started:
1. Study the job requirements.
You need to have a deep understanding of the job you’re applying for. Make sure to research the description and write down any notes or questions you might have about the listed qualifications. Refer back to your resume and see how your experiences and skills match up with the list of requirements.
2. Research the company.
It’s always a good idea to take a good look at the company beforehand. If you haven’t yet, visit their website and look them up on social media platforms. Get a good feel for the company’s culture and communication style. You might also want to see if there is any recent news about them. They might ask you what you know about the company, and it’s always a good idea to have this knowledge ahead of time.
During the Wall Street Interview
When the big day comes, there is still a lot you can do to prepare. Make sure you take the following tips to heart so you don’t psych yourself out before you have a chance to show the recruiters what you’re made of.
1. Be honest.
If they ask a question that you don’t know the answer to, don’t lie. You might have to maintain that lie forever, which is exhausting. Instead, just be your authentic self and tell the truth. It’s okay to not know everything.
2. Dress well.
Make sure you plan a business professional outfit for the day of the interview. Your attire can say a lot about you, and you want to make a good first impression. Keep in mind that your clothing should also be comfortable. Don’t wear anything too tight or too loose.
3. Engage in small talk.
Take the time to make a personal connection with each person interviewing you. Smile, greet them warmly, and ask them how their day is going. Be sure to thank them for their time to visit with you during the meeting. A smile and positive body language can sure go a long way!
After the Interview
After all is said and done, you’ve answered the questions and asked yours in return, the work still isn’t over. There is one more thing you can do to make sure your interview goes smoothly and you are considered as one of the top candidates for the job. Also, for some of the best tips on how to be at your best during a wall street job interview, check out Sam Shiah Mastermind.
Send a quick thank-you letter or email as a follow-up to the interview. Wait no longer than 12 hours – or sooner – after the interview ends. It does not need to be a long message, but make sure to thank them for their time. Tell them that you are looking forward to hearing from them again soon. Your enthusiasm is what will set you apart from the rest.
