Whether you’ve been to a load of interviews with no success or are gearing up for your first formal face-to-face, the key is to be prepared. Following the tips below will help increase your chances of getting the job in the lead-up to, during and after your interview.
- Dress to impress. This will not only make you easier on the eye to your interviewers, but will boost your confidence on the day. Wear smart, formal attire and make sure you are well-groomed.
- Be friendly and polite. Make sure you give a firm handshake, smile and are generally polite to everyone you meet from the moment you enter the building to the point of departure.
- Wait patiently. Sitting patiently and being ready to greet your interviewer will make a great impression. Tapping your feet, sighing and talking loudly on the phone are not advised!
- Be punctual. Turning up late will do you no favours. Research your route and leave plenty of time to get there. If something unavoidable happens, let the company know as soon as possible.
- Do your research. The more you know about the company the better, so study the website and take notes. Demonstrate your knowledge in a natural way by showing how you fit with its values and objectives.
- Ask insightful questions. Don’t ask anything that you should have picked up in your research, but it’s good to ask specific questions, such as ‘What does a typical day look like in this role?’ or ‘What do you like most about working here?’
- Remember names. Listen when your interviewers introduce themselves and try to drop their names naturally into your answers.
- Don’t fidget! You may feel like picking at your nails, rubbing your nose, tipping your chair or shifting your notes about on the table, but fidgeting will make you look nervous and could be distracting.
- Prepare for the common questions. Many interviewers stick to a set script in interviews, so be prepared for stock questions, including the dreaded strengths and weaknesses question.
- Talk about the added value you can offer. Every company is looking for people who can add value rather than simply turning up each day to get paid. What have you achieved in previous roles that could really benefit your new employer?
- Show your commitment. It’s fine to make it clear that you really want the job for all the right reasons. Don’t be afraid to say that you believe you are a strong fit and would love to get through to the next stage.
- Stay on track. Try to give concise answers and avoid long, rambling anecfdotes. Think before you speak and try to give neat examples without digressing too much.
- Be confident! You may not feel it, but put on a confident front and you’ll soon start to ooze it. The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll be.
- Be positive. Speak firmly but warmly, and avoid using pause words such as ‘um’ and ‘like’. We all waffle a bit, but try to keep your tone steady and upbeat.
- Explain why you’re leaving your job. If you’re already employed, come up with a good reason for leaving, even if it’s not the main reason. Maybe you’re looking for a new challenge or want to travel more. Perhaps you aren’t using all your skills in your current role or you want to work for a bigger firm.
- Show that you’re a good fit. It’s important that your interviewers see you as someone who will fit the company culture well. Let your personality shine through and give examples of your interests and hobbies if asked to do so. This will prove there’s more to you than work, work, work.
- Thank your interviewers. However well or badly it’s gone, thank the panel before you leave the room and remain polite and positive until you’ve left the building.
- Follow up with them. It may be appropriate to send a thank you email, or to enquire about second interviews if you haven’t heard back. If you’re unsuccessful, be gracious and ask for feedback that may help you the next time round.
