MOAA is marking the launch of its new Job Board with a three-part series offering key tips for networking, résumé writing, and interview preparation. The third entry is below; check out earlier entries that cover networking and résumé writing.

 

A strong résumé and a stellar network have gotten you this far – it’s time for the big interview. Whether you’re used to fielding questions or you’re preparing for your first interview since leaving service, there are ways to stand out from the rest of the finalists.

 

Check out these 10 tips (with some bonus guidance at the end!) to help land that offer.

 

Before the Interview

1. Research the Company and Role. Know their mission, values, products or services, and be caught up on the latest company and industry news. Understand how the role fits into the company’s bigger picture.

 

2. Understand the Job Description. Identify the position’s key skills and qualifications, and prepare examples from your experience that show you meet those requirements.

 

3. Practice Common Interview Questions. Prepare for questions like:

• “Tell me about yourself.”
• “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
• “Tell me about a challenge you overcame.”
• “Why should we hire you?”
  
  

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses when asked about your past experiences:

• Situation – Set the scene.
• Task – What was the goal or problem?
• Action – What did you do?
• Result – What happened? (Be specific)

 

4. Tailor Your Résumé Talking Points. Highlight your achievements, not just your job duties, and be ready to explain how this experience adds value to the job you're after.

 

[RELATED: More Transition and Career Resources From MOAA]

 

During the Interview

5. First Impressions Matter. Arrive early (or log in early, if it’s a virtual interview), dress appropriately for the company culture, make eye contact, and smile.

 

6. Be Clear and Concise. Be ready to explain your career path, key decisions, and what you’re looking for next. Avoid rambling, and use plain language, especially if you’re coming from the military or technical fields.

 

7. Emphasize Your Transferable Skills. Be ready with concrete examples of skills like leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability leading to successful outcomes.

8. Prepare Questions to Ask Your Interviewer. Craft questions that show both excitement and curiosity. Consider options like:

• “What does success look like in this role?”
• “Can you tell me more about the team I’d be working with?”
• “What are the biggest challenges facing this department?”

 

[RELATED: Here’s How to Ask the Right Questions in Your Next Job Interview]

 

After the Interview

9. Ask About the Next Steps. Politely ask when you might hear back.

 

10. Send a Thank-You Note. Reach out within 24 hours and reference something specific from your conversation. Reaffirm your interest and remind the interviewer why you're a great fit.

Bonus Tips

• Remember: You know yourself and your skill set better than anyone else.
• Be honest if you don’t know something, but show willingness to learn.
• Don’t badmouth previous employers or teams.
• Stay calm under pressure – it’s a great way to show poise and maturity.
• For virtual interviews, test your tech ahead of time, look into the camera, have a clean background, and don’t forget to smile. You’ll appear more approachable.
• When in doubt about appropriate attire, go slightly more formal.
• Mind your body language – sit upright, smile, and maintain eye contact. Avoid crossing arms, fidgeting, or slouching.
• Arrive early, but not too early – no more than 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled interview time. And never be late.