There are many ways to embody job-readiness, but those qualities vary a bit for people working in a skilled trade, such as plumbers, graphic designers, carpenters, and electricians. It’s important for everyone to know how to present themselves in a professional manner and how to work on soft skills, such as how to speak on the phone and work with others, but for those working in a trade, building a reputation for reliability is just as critical. This is because many employers return again and again to the people they know they can count on for a job, and they’ll also refer those employees for other jobs. Fortunately, it’s not too difficult to find the best ways to be prepared for an interview, or for a new job. Having a good plan means you’ll be able to nail that interview and work your way up within the ranks quickly, so do some research to get started. Look up information about the business you’re interviewing with so you won’t be caught off guard by any questions. Here are some of the best tips on how to prepare.

Fortunately, it’s not too difficult to find the best ways to be prepared for an interview, or for a new job. Having a good plan means you’ll be able to nail that interview and work your way up within the ranks quickly, so do some research to get started. Look up information about the business you’re interviewing with so you won’t be caught off guard by any questions.

Here are some of the best tips on how to prepare:

Do​ ​some​ ​homework.

Do some research on the company you want to work for; find out how many employees currently work there, what their business model is, and what their code of ethics is. Get familiar with the job descriptions they have posted, especially for the position you’re interviewing for, and look at the requirements to make sure you have a good understanding of what you’ll need to bring to the interview. For tips on where to start doing your homework, check out this helpful article.

Hold a mock interview

It can be helpful sometimes–especially if you think you’ll be nervous–to hold a mock interview
with a friend so you won’t stumble over your words when you’re sitting down with your future
boss. Think about some of the questions that might be asked, and come up with some answers
that will demonstrate your knowledge of the job at hand.

To get a better understanding of what employers look for when hiring, look over this list by
HomeAdvisor.com.

Think about how to present yourself

A first impression can go a long way, so think about the type of clothes you’ll wear to the
interview and how you’ll introduce yourself. For a business environment, business-appropriate
clothing is a must. That means clean, well-pressed shirts, skirts, and slacks, well-cared for shoes,
and well-groomed hair and nails. If you have tattoos and believe they’ll give a negative
impression, consider using tattoo cover-up or wearing long sleeves.

Once​ ​you​ ​get​ ​the​ ​job…

Be​ ​professional.

Many of the same rules apply for the job as they do for the interview. Just as important as how you look is whether or not you’re on time, so leave your house early; always plan for traffic or other issues that might make you late. Leave your phone in the car or silence it and keep it in your purse or pocket. Show your boss that you take your job seriously; this will be very important if you want to move up within your company.

Work​ ​on​ ​your​ ​soft​ ​skills.

Soft skills include everything from knowing how to regulate your emotions while on the job to being able to effectively communicate to customers and coworkers alike. Understanding these skills–and how to make people feel comfortable–will help you boost your confidence and lower your stress level, making you a more effective employee. For a list of soft skills to focus on, read on here.
Job readiness is important for everyone, not just those who are going in for an interview. Knowing what it is expected of you and how to improve your performance is key if you want to prove to your employer that you’re management material. Do some research, remain professional, and find the best ways to build upon your skills every day.