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This month, we’re looking at interviewing and how to show up and show out during your next interview. There is only one chance to make a first impression and you want that impression to be the best version of you it can be. For many, these will be pretty obvious, but you may find a nugget or two that will be helpful to you. Next month, we’ll look at interviewing from the company’s perspective. 

BEFORE THE INTERVIEW:

1. Research the company:

• Understand the company’s products, services, culture, and values.
• Familiarize yourself with recent news or achievements of the company.

2. Understand the job description:

• Analyze the job requirements and make a list of the skills and qualifications needed.
• Prepare examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to meet these requirements.

3. Technical Knowledge:

• Brush up on your technical knowledge related to electrical distribution systems, power distribution, transformers, switchgear, lighting, and other relevant equipment.
• Be prepared to discuss your experience with relevant technologies and tools used in the industry.

4. Industry trends and regulations:

• Stay informed about the latest trends, innovations, and regulations in the electrical distribution industry.
• Demonstrate awareness of safety standards and compliance requirements.

5. Project experience:

• Highlight any projects you’ve worked on related to electrical distribution. Discuss your role, the challenges faced, and the outcomes achieved.
• Emphasize your ability to design, implement, and troubleshoot related industry systems.

6. Problem-solving scenarios:

• Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Use the S.T.A.R. method to structure your responses, detailing the Situation, Task, Action, and Result.
• Provide examples of how you’ve resolved technical challenges in the past.

7. Safety focus:

• Stress the importance of safety in electrical distribution work. Discuss your commitment to following safety protocols and your experience with creating a safe work environment.

8. Communication skills:

• Effective communication is crucial in the electrical distribution industry. Showcase your ability to communicate technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

9. Teamwork and collaboration:

• Many projects in this industry involve collaboration with various teams. Share examples of successful collaboration and teamwork from your previous experiences.

10. Adaptability and continuous learning:

• The industry is dynamic, with evolving technologies and standards. Emphasize your ability to adapt to changes and your commitment to continuous learning.

11. Customer focus:

• If applicable, discuss your experience working directly with customers or clients. Emphasize your commitment to meeting customer needs and expectations.

12. Equipment and software proficiency:

• Highlight your proficiency with relevant equipment and software commonly used in the electrical distribution field.

13. Regulatory compliance:

• Demonstrate your understanding of regulatory requirements and how you ensure compliance in your work.

14. Networking:

• If possible, leverage professional networks to gain insights into the company and the industry before the interview.

15. Certifications and training:

• Mention any relevant certifications or training you have undergone, showcasing your commitment to professional development.

DURING THE INTERVIEW:

1. Body language

• Maintain good eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and sit up straight. Non-verbal cues play a significant role in how you are perceived.

2. Active listening:

• Pay close attention to the interviewer’s questions and respond thoughtfully. This shows that you are engaged and value what they are saying.

3. Show enthusiasm:

• Express your genuine interest in the position and the company. Employers appreciate candidates who are enthusiastic and motivated.

4. Be concise:

• While providing detailed responses is important, be mindful of not overloading your answers with unnecessary information. Be clear and concise.

5. Ask questions:

• Prepare insightful questions about the company, team, and role. This demonstrates your interest and helps you evaluate if the company is the right fit for you.

6. Flexibility and adaptability:

• Showcase your ability to adapt to change and navigate challenges. Employers value candidates who can think on their feet and handle unexpected situations.

7. Honesty:

• Be honest about your experiences and qualifications. If you don’t know the answer to a question, admit it, but express a willingness to learn.

AFTER THE INTERVIEW

1. Thank you email:

• Send a personalized thank-you email within 24 hours expressing your gratitude for the interview. Reiterate your interest in the position and briefly mention a key point from the interview.

2. Follow-up timeline:

• If you were given a timeline for a decision, respect it. If not, following up after a week or two if you haven’t heard back is acceptable.

3. Reflect and learn:

• Take some time to reflect on the interview. What went well? What could be improved? Use this insight to enhance your performance in future interviews.

First and foremost, congratulations if your interviewer agrees and you obtain a job offer! Then, take a moment to assess whether the offer matches your expectations. Do your study, understand what is vital to you (from salary to vacation time to other amenities), and then respond to the offer.