Going to a job interview is exciting, but it can also be stressful and scary: “How should I present myself?, What if I am unable to answer some of the tough questions?, What if I’m not up to speed with the company’s mission and values?”...

While many may find the situation intimidating, the purpose of an interview is twofold: Your objective is a) to assess whether your qualifications and career ambitions match the position, and b) to get a job offer. The employer’s objective is to find out who you are, what you have to offer, and if you’re the right fit for the position and company. In other words, you both have to find out if you’re right for each other. 

Preparing for your interview can make you feel more confident and relaxed. In this blog, we’ll share a few tips and tricks on how to get ready for your next interview, and give insights into what the recruitment process looks like at MapsPeople.

#1. Know your audience

Spend some time learning everything you can about the company. By doing so, you’ll get the larger picture of the company, and you’ll give the impression of being genuinely interested in the job, motivated, and thorough in your work.

#2. Prepare your answers

Even the smartest and most skilled candidate needs to prepare well-thought-out answers to questions most likely to be asked. Have an answer to “Tell me about yourself” ready. You should also carefully consider why you’re interested in the job and how it aligns with what motivates you. Identify a few key factors that make the job a great fit.

#3. Dress for the job

Many businesses have a casual dress code. However, this does not allow you to wear your casual Sunday outfit. Whether you should wear a suit or something a little less formal depends on the company culture and the position you are seeking.

#4. Don’t be too late - or too early

While you don’t want to be late for your job interview, you don’t want to be too early either. Your interviewer may have other meetings or interviews before you, so don’t make them feel rushed or uncomfortable by arriving too early. If you arrive too early, it's best to take a short walk or wait in your car.

It's always a good idea to write down the name and phone number of the person you are meeting. If delayed for any reason, you can contact your interviewer by being prepared.

#5. Ask questions

As mentioned, the job interview is your chance to assess whether this is the right position and company for you. Spend some time beforehand writing down questions. Don’t be afraid to ask them during your interview.

#6. Be you

A job interview is a professional meeting, so you should act accordingly. However, most companies are not only looking for a set of skills, but they are also looking for the right person.  Just be yourself. At MapsPeople, we care about finding the right fit for our team. Of course, they need to be qualified for the job. We will teach them any necessary skills required for the position that they might be missing.

The recruitment process at MapsPeople

No two businesses are alike, and neither are recruitment processes. At MapsPeople, we have a three-stage recruiting process where you get to know us both as an employer and also as a company.

The interviews will take place at one of our offices or on Google Hangouts. Either way, we are just as excited as you.

The first interview will focus on your motivation for a job change, and your competencies in terms of technical skills and tools. We often ask that you take a personality test before this interview. Typically, you meet with a colleague from our HR Department and receive your first introduction to MapsPeople.

The second interview is a more in-depth assessment of your technical skills and a deeper discussion of your expectations working for MapsPeople. You often meet your direct manager and a peer colleague at this interview.

If invited to a third interview, we request to speak to some of your references and ask you to provide two or three that are relevant. The third and final interview deals with contract negotiations and other pertinent issues. In total, the recruitment process averages 4-6 weeks.