We know interviews can be nerve-wracking. It’s easy to panic when you don’t know the right answer. You might start floundering, or go silent all together.
In this article we’re going to give you five tips so this never happens to you. After all, the best candidates are relaxed and calm…
1. Research the company
This doesn’t have to be a full on report. But get to know some important facts. What are the names and roles of your interviewers? Who is the head of the department your applying for? Familiarise yourself with their products/services.
Bonus tip: to make a great impression before you even walk in the door, add key people on LinkedIn with a quick message about how much your looking forward to the interview.
2. Prepare your answers
A quick google search will usually bring up the commonly asked questions for your role/industry. If not, guess them! Take a look over the job specification and your CV and think about some of the questions they might want to ask you. Why do you want this job? What are the main tasks in this job? What are the biggest trends in the industry? What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses? ect.
Keep your answers focused on what you can do for the employer, not what they can do for you. And don’t memorise your answers word for word. But just have some ideas and real life examples ready for whatever questions might come your way.
It’s also important to prep two or three questions of your own ready for the end of the interview. It’s a great way to show your understanding of the organisation and future role. (Never ask about money or perks!)
3. Be Positive
They’ve asked for an interview because they like what they’ve seen so far. Think of this as an exciting experience, not a nerve-wracking one!
Be positive about yourself and your experiences. Speak clearly and confidently. And have great body language, don’t slouch, look bright and attentive.
You can do this!
4. Plan out your day
Don’t leave anything to chance! How will you get there and how long is the journey? You could always do a trial run a few days before.
Get your outfit ready the night before. Studies show employers decide whether to hire you in the first seven minutes so you need to get it right! Check the dress code, you should always look slightly smarter than the people interviewing you.
5. Get ready to ace the interview
When you walk into the building be friendly and chatty with everyone.
Sit patiently in the waiting area or read magazines if they have them. But don’t read your CV or notes, it makes you look nervous. Make sure your phone is turned off before you even go into the building. Checking it will make you look bored.
Greet the interviewers with a big smile and handshake. Make some small talk.
When the interview begins take your time answering questions. Give examples and never use slang words or swear!
So get going! Do your research, prep your answers, plan your day and stay positive. You’ll be great.
Good luck!
