For most people, job interviews are extremely nerve-wracking! Whether you’re cramming for your first interview ever, or your first in five years, the fundamentals remain the same. Being prepared and knowing what to expect can help relieve some of that tension and boost your confidence. Check our top tips below and show the Hiring Manager you’re the best candidate for the role:
1 - Arrive early
Five to ten minutes is sufficient, any longer and it may be too early. Check out the directions and parking options ahead of time to make sure you aren’t late. As you wait, you can observe current employees and get an idea of the work environment. Make conversation with the receptionist, they are often the eyes and ears of the business!
2 - Dress and act professionally
The way you dress for an interview tells employers a lot about you. Even if the dress code is business casual, go the extra mile. A professional outfit shows respect for the Hiring Manager and an understanding of company culture. Smile throughout your interview, speak positively and maintain eye contact. (TIP - if looking your interviewer in the eyes makes you nervous, look at their top lip instead - they’ll never know the difference!)
3 - Check out the Company
Do your research! Make sure you’re well informed before heading in for your interview. Also check out their social media pages - more and more companies are moving away from websites and towards promoting their brand through social media. This will give you a better insight into the company culture and the individuals who work there. Take note of the job skills that are most common in current (and past) employees.
4 - Re-read the job posting
What is the employer looking for in a candidate? Be ready to describe your professional and personal qualities that meet their selection criteria, as well as any industry knowledge you have obtained. The closer your qualifications and experience are to the role, the higher your chance of being progressed to the next stage of the recruitment process.
5 - Practice answering questions
Certain questions are inevitable in an interview. Take the time to review/research common interview questions as it will give you a good foundation for your responses. The more prepared you are, the less stress the situation will cause you, which will come across as confidence in your answers. Practice with a friend or family member! Some common questions: “What makes you a suitable candidate for the role?” “What are your biggest strengths/weaknesses?” “Why do you want to leave your current job?”
When an interviewer says “Tell me a little bit about yourself”, they don’t want your whole life story - they want to know about the skills and attributes you have that are suited to the role.
6 - Interview Etiquette
Bring extra copies of your resumes, with an updated list of references. Don’t walk in with a cup of coffee, a bottle of water or any form of food. Your mobile should be turned off and out of sight for the duration of your interview. Greet your interviewer with a strong handshake. Have questions prepared - we recommend at least three. Examples include asking about the corporate structure and culture, what a typical day would look like, and of course - what is the next step in the hiring process.
7 - Say thank you
After your interview, taking the time to say thank you in an email reinforces your interest in the position. It also provides you with an opportunity to address any issues or any other questions you didn’t ask in the interview.
8 - Follow up
If you haven’t heard back in the time discussed during the interview, give them a call to follow up. If a decision still hasn’t been made, ask when the best time is to call back.
Good luck! And don’t forget to smile :)