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Speak Their Language
Interviews are conversations and reflecting the company’s own language in that conversation is a good way to make a connection. The best strategy for getting a handle on their language is to study the job description.
Most job descriptions include the responsibilities of the position, skills that are required for success, and information about the company. Start aligning your skills with the language used in these sections. You might consider yourself a “team player”, but ABC Accounting is looking for a candidate with a “strong level of team orientation.”
While these are essentially the same skills, reflecting their language during the interview shows a greater attention to detail and forms a greater connection with the interviewer and the company itself.
Prepare Questions
Follow Up
The interview doesn’t end after you’ve left the building. Follow up with the person that interviewed you. A common courtesy is to send an email thanking them for their time and the opportunity to interview for the position. This is a good strategy for advancing the conversation or finding out how you can improve your interview skills. Employers not only want to know that you’re professional, but also that you’re excited about the job. Following up shows that you’re serious about the position.
Final Thoughts
Interviewing for a CPA position can be intimidating, but this is what you’ve prepared for. Passing the CPA exam means you’re an expert, so don’t be afraid to show them what you’ve got. And don’t forget to have fun throughout the experience. Good luck!
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