Interviewing for a job can be a nerve-wracking experience for many. No matter which industry you are in, there’s no doubt that the interview is the most critical part of the hiring process. The goal is always to make yourself and your qualifications stand out from tons of equally talented applicants. 

According to Forbes, a single job will most likely have 118 applicants, and 20% of those will get an interview. Tough competition, right? Don’t worry; this blog’s got you covered! Here are six interview skills that will surely help you move one step closer to the job you want.

Do some research

Research is a skill that you will need regardless of occupation. Researching a company before an interview is a must. You should check its background, culture, strengths, financial health, community interactions, and even its competitors. No matter how skillful you are, the results may be less than desired if you lack this crucial information. 

Quantify your achievements

Some people may not realize that selling yourself in an interview makes a huge difference. Did you know that numbers play a big role in the hiring process, too? Describing your achievements with metrics and statistics makes a memorable impression. 

Instead of vague statements such as “I led a successful project,” you can quantify your accomplishments. For instance, say, “The project I led reduced costs by 30% and landed us seven large new clients in just ten days.” Specific statements like this will help recruiters and hiring managers see the measurable results you can bring.

Learn more about nonverbal communication

According to studies, most people form their first impressions based 55% on body language and only 7% on verbal communication. These numbers show that nonverbal communication is significant, especially during an interview. So look the part, sit up straight, keep good eye contact, smile, and be well-prepared.

Know your resume

Many companies, especially when they post jobs online, use an applicant tracking system (ATS). This system targets keywords and phrases in resumes to sort applicants. Because of this, it’s essential to look for ATS-friendly resume templates to guide you. Using a template ensures an optimized application and increases your chances of making it through to an interview.

Use time wisely

Have you heard how long interviews last? On average, most interviews last no less than 30 minutes and no more than an hour. Forty-five minutes is the sweet spot. Within this span, you have to make sure you mention your strongest selling points and leave an excellent impression.

End on a positive note

Close the interview with something positive instead of the usual “Do you have any concerns regarding my application?” Thank the interviewers for their time. Or ask them some probing questions to convey your curiosity and enthusiasm. For instance, “What do you think are the most important qualities for someone in this role?”

Put in the prep work, and you’re sure to make a lasting impression. Following these valuable tips puts you one step closer to acing the interview and landing your dream job.