💼 Killing Your Interview: The Realest Guide You Didn’t Know You Needed
- Courtney G. Jackson
- May 15
- 2 min read
Let’s be real: interviews are awkward.Sweaty palms. Fake smiles. Trying to sell yourself without sounding like you’re selling yourself.
But here's the truth:You’re not just there to answer questions — you're there to own the room.
Welcome to “Killing Your Interview” — not with nerves, but with presence, prep, and power moves that get you hired.
🎯 Step 1: Know the Game — and Play It Smart
Research is your cheat code. Google the company. Look up their values. Check their socials.Don’t just scroll — study like your rent depends on it.
Pro tip: Bring up something recent they posted. It shows you care — and that you’re plugged in.
✍🏾 Step 2: Tell Your Story, Not Your Resume
They're going to ask:“Tell me about yourself.”Don't recite your resume like a robot.
Instead, try this formula:
Past + Passion + Purpose = Killer Intro
✅ "I’ve worked in retail for 2 years, and I’ve loved helping people feel confident. Now I’m looking to grow in a space where I can keep doing that while leveling up my skills.”
Boom. Human. Memorable. Real.
🤐 Step 3: Stop Over-Talking (and Start Listening)
Confidence isn't rambling — it’s clarity.Answer the question, then zip it. Let your words breathe.
Also, listen actively. Nod. Make eye contact. Repeat key words from the question in your answer. It shows you’re present — not just rehearsed.
💡 Step 4: Ask Them Questions That Hit
The real power move? Asking questions at the end.
Try these:
“What does success look like in this role?”
“How do you support growth and learning here?”
“What’s something you wish people knew before joining the team?”
Suddenly, you’re not just a candidate. You’re a thinker. A contributor. A vibe.
🔑 Step 5: Your Energy Is Everything
Your energy walks in the room before your résumé does. So walk in with posture. Smile like you’re meant to be there. Speak like you already belong.
And if you’re nervous? Channel it into excitement. Nerves mean you care. That’s a good thing.
🧠 Bonus Tip: You Don’t Need to Be “Perfect” — Just Prepared
You don’t have to be the smartest, most polished, most experienced person in the room.
But if you’re prepared, genuine, and present — you’re already ahead of the game.
📣 Final Word:
Killing your interview isn’t about impressing everyone. It’s about connecting, communicating, and showing who you really are — with intention.
You got this.
🔗 Need more tools for job prep, resume help, or mock interview practice?
Explore our Education Hub at JaNyCoIs.org
We’re here to help you build boldly.
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