Interviews can be daunting, no matter what stage you are at in your career. Even experienced candidates can make mistakes once put in front of a potential employer. We’ve put together a list of our top 10 interview hints, which we believe will give you the best possible chance of securing that dream job.
- Be prepared. This is the key to a successful interview. Preparation for an interview should include thorough research on the organisation (reading the company website or other literature), familiarisation of the job specification and knowing how to get to the interview location.
- Dress to impress (but don’t over do it!) Ensure you are smartly dressed, but avoid strong aftershave / perfume or heavy make-up as this can be distracting for the interviewer.
- Arrive on time. This should go without saying, but time and time again, candidates will arrive late. This creates a bad impression from the start and and employer may wonder if your bad timekeeping will continue into employment.
- Body language is important. Strive for positive body language – don’t slouch, look attentive and interested and keep eye contact with the interviewer as much as possible.
- Take your time answering questions. Try to take a few moments to think about the answer to the questions. If you don’t understand a question, ask the interviewer to clarify his / her point – this way you avoid any unnecessary waffling!
- Turn off your phone! There is nothing worse than a candidate’s mobile phone beeping during an interview. Not only is it distracting for both parties, it is rude and embarrassing for the candidate.
- Be positive. You should always try to present yourself and your experience in a positive light. Even if things have gone wrong in the past, explain how you have learnt from your experiences and remember that nobody is perfect.
- Smile. Nobody wants to interview a grumpy candidate! Even if you are feeling nervous, try to smile, it will help you relax a little.
- Ask questions. At the end of the interview you will usually be invited to ask any questions you may have about the role or the company. Having some pre-prepared questions show that you have a genuine interest in the role and that you are keen to learn more. Candidates that don’t have a single question may be deemed as uninterested and in a rush to leave the interview room!
- Be polite and courteous. Remember, manners cost nothing. At the end of the interview you should always thank the interview panel for their time and shake hands before leaving. It will help create a good lasting impression.
Check out these body language tips before your next job interview: