Searching for a new job can trigger a wide range of emotions—from hope to anxiety—and for many, the interview is the most intimidating part of the process.

But it doesn’t have to feel that way. After all, a request for an interview means your resume and application have spurred a company to want to learn more about you! The interview allows you to share more details about your experience and skills, as well as your personality. At the same time, you can learn more about the company and role beyond what you read in the job description.

Get to know Northwell’s interview process and read advice from our recruiters to help your next interview be a success.

While our most common steps are outlined above, your process may differ given the variety of positions at Northwell Health. Our Talent Acquisition team engages with candidates across a variety of ways such as texting, video, virtual or in-person interviews. For example, given the many pandemic-era adjustments that businesses and candidates have had to implement, virtual interviews are far more prevalent now than ever before. No matter how you’re interviewing with us, we’ve collected some great tips to help you prepare for a successful interview experience.

First impressions matter. Vikash Ramnarine, a senior talent acquisition specialist, reminds you to treat a virtual interview the same way you would if it were in person: “Make sure you’re dressed professionally—and don’t forget the camera is always on!”

Talent Acquisition Specialist Sade Somorin says if you’re attending an in-person interview, “Have your resume on hand. And read your resume to be prepared to answer questions pertaining to your job history.”

Sade looks at not just alignment between the candidate’s background and the role’s requirements, but also “the value the candidate will bring to their team and the organization as a whole.”

That means being specific. Sade suggests, “When you share a team project or assignment you participated in, explain the task, action and result that contributed to its success.”

Attentive listening is important, but an interview is a conversation, not a one-way street. “Candidates should have questions prepared to ask at the end of the interview about the position to ensure it is a good match for themselves and the company,” says Nicholas Franzini, a senior talent acquisition specialist. Asking pointed questions also demonstrates that you’ve done your research and have a true interest in the role and the company.

Senior Recruiter Shannon Skaee stresses doing research before the interview so you can better explain how your experience and the job’s expectations line up. “Demonstrating that you’ve done your research can set you apart from other candidates—and may impact the final hiring decision.”

Coaching legend Vince Lombardi once said, “If you are five minutes early, you are already ten minutes late.” That’s good advice on the gridiron as well as in the job market. “Candidates should also map out a route to ensure they arrive 15 minutes early,” says Nicholas.

This applies even if you’re interviewing from your kitchen table. You won’t have to worry about traveling to your interview, but you should still allow yourself at least 15 minutes to identify and address any technical issues that may arise, especially regarding your internet connection.

In a virtual setting, be mindful of your surroundings. Conduct the interview in a quiet location that minimizes background distractions and potential interruptions. A tabletop setting, such as a desk or dining table, works great because it provides a professional feel of sitting across from the recruiter. “Avoid using a phone for a video interview,” Vikash adds, “but if absolutely necessary, prop it up on something stable so that it’s not shaking.”

Other advice? Relax! Be confident about your skills. Let your experience and knowledge shine. At Northwell, we value being “Truly Ourselves”—expressing your personality during the interview can leave a positive and memorable impression on the interviewer.

After your interview, don’t forget to send a thank you note to everyone with whom you interviewed while you wait for your recruiter to reach out regarding next steps.