Preparing well and presenting yourself confidently during a job interview can make all the difference. Here are ten must-dos to help you shine in your next interview:
Research the Company
This is crucial to your chances of successfully landing the job. You can look up the company's mission, values, history and recent news to be prepared to engage in a knowledgeable way with the interviewers. If you familiarise yourself with the goals and culture of the firm, it will help you to tailor your interactions and demonstrate genuine interest.
Understand the Role and its Requirements
Go beyond the job description to understand what the daily details of the role are, and in what way success is measured by the team or management. Discuss how your skills and experiences align with the role’s requirements and how this enables you to add value.
Practice Likely Interview Questions
Prepare answers for frequently asked questions like "Tell me about yourself?", "What are your strengths and weaknesses?" and "Why do you want to work here?" etc. Be sure to practice your answers but don’t memorise them in order to be able to sound natural and conversational.
Have Concrete Examples of Your Work to Hand
Having specific examples of work experiences that showcase your achievements and how you’ve previously handled challenges is key. This will instil confidence in the interviewers that you are capable of dealing with the requirements of the role. Applying the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) will help you to structure your answers for maximum clarity and impact.
Dress in an Appropriate Way for the Company’s Culture
Research the company’s culture and apply an appropriate dress code. This will not only boost your confidence but also leave a positive first impression with the interviewers.
Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions for the interviewer about the team, company goals, and their expectations for the role. Good questions will demonstrate that you’re interested in understanding how you can contribute and grow within the company.
Bring Copies of Your Resume/Portfolio
Make sure to bring several copies of your resume in case the interviewers don’t have one on hand. This will demonstrate professionalism on your part. If required, bring a portfolio of your work that demonstrates your skills and experience.
Show Enthusiasm and Engagement
Displaying positive body language, making eye contact, speaking with enthusiasm for the role and company and actively engaging will impress the interviewers.
Be Prepared to Discuss Salary and Benefits
Avoid bringing up salary first unless prompted, but ensure you have researched industry salary standards and be prepared if the topic comes up.
Follow Up with a Thank-You Email
It’s good policy to send a personalised thank-you email to the interviewers. Within 24 hours, send an email expressing appreciation for the opportunity and reinforcing your interest. If you mention something specific from the interview it will trigger recall and ensure that the interviewer remembers you.
Mastering these steps will leave a lasting impression and greatly improve your chances of landing the job.