For most, a job interview is a nerve-wracking process. It’s only natural. After all, you’re being evaluated and questioned. Then there’s the fact that your future employment hinges on your success at making a good impression.

While you can’t prepare for every possibility, or curveball an interviewer might throw at you, you can be well prepared. Perhaps the number one key to acing the interview: Making a connection with the interviewer.

Here are several ways you can prepare for an interview and connect with an interviewer:

Prep for Common Questions (and Your Answers)

You can’t predict every question an interviewer will ask, but you can prepare for common ones. Take some time to write out brief answers to these questions. Or better yet, practice giving your answers out loud.

Five questions you should be prepared to answer in any job interview are:

• Tell me about yourself.
• Why are you leaving your current job?
• What makes you a good fit for this job?
• What is your biggest weakness?
• What salary are you expecting?

Show You Want the Job by Doing Your Homework

You may be surprised by how many potential employees arrive at a job interview with zero knowledge about the company. Research the company through its website and any publications, such as annual reports.

Don’t just focus on the perks of working there. What is the company’s mission? Who makes up its leadership team? What big initiatives are underway?

Take it one step further and think about how you can be part of the company’s mission and initiatives going forward. You’ll be far ahead of many other job candidates.

Connect on a Deeper Level

Humans function in predictable ways–for the most part. Use that to your advantage to form a connection with the interviewer. Here’s how:

Find common ground: If the interviewer has a photo from a ski trip on her desk, and you love skiing, ask her about it. If you know the interviewer graduated from your alma mater, mention it. Don’t ever fake a common interest for the sake of the interview. Rather look for things you have in common and build on them.

Be a mirror: People naturally gravitate toward those whose body language is similar. Reflect the interviewer’s body language. If he is leaning forward, do the same. Don’t make it obvious, just pay attention.

Looking for Your Next Career Move? Consider Temporary Employment

With offices in Portland, Eugene and Bend, Oregon, Staffing Partners helps talented, hardworking individuals like you find the work you want, where you want. Why wait? Your new career is waiting. Search for your new job today.