Preparing for an interview can sometimes feel overwhelming, but it is essential to ensure that you understand the role you are applying for and can make a good impression. This can be the determining factor between you getting your chosen new role and having to continue your job search.
We explore some tips on how to prepare and increase your chances of landing the job.
1. Research the Company and the Role
Before you even step into the interview room, or in this day and age, log in to the virtual call, it is crucial to have a good understanding of the company and the role you are applying for. Research the company's history, culture, values, and mission statement, as well as the specific job responsibilities and qualifications. This information will not only help you understand the job better but will also help you demonstrate your suitability and acquired skills to successfully carry out the role.
2. Know Who You are Talking to
A good company will inform candidates who they are going to be meeting at the interview, so do your research. Look for any online news articles or their Linkedin profile to gain an understanding of the job they do and how they could potentially interact with the role you are applying for.
3. Review Common Interview Questions and Practise Your Responses
One of the best ways to prepare for an interview is to research common interview questions and practise your responses. Pay particular attention to the essential skills and experience listed in the job description as this is what the hiring team believes the role requires. For example if the job description lists attention to detail as an essential requirement, make sure you are able to give examples of how you plan and review your work to ensure mistakes are not made. The STAR method is often the best way to answer interview questions and it helps you focus your answer. STAR stands for Situation Task Action Result.
Practising will help you feel more comfortable and confident during the interview and ensure that you are providing thoughtful and relevant answers.
Some examples of common interview questions include:
What was your greatest achievement in your last role?
How do you manage conflicting priorities and opinions?
Can you tell me about a time when you overcame a challenge?
Where do you see yourself in five years?
4. Prepare Your Outfit and Appearance
Whilst looks aren't everything they are definitely one of the first things noticed when meeting someone. It is essential to dress appropriately and ensure that you look your best. Choose an outfit that is appropriate for the company culture and the role you are applying for. The best thing about virtual interviews has got to be that you can still wear pyjama bottoms and comfy socks, while your top half is a bit more interview ready.
5. Practise Good Body Language and Communication Skills
Nonverbal communication can be just as important as what you say during an interview. Practise good body language by maintaining eye contact, sitting up straight, and avoiding nervous habits like fidgeting or crossing your arms. Additionally, practise your communication skills by speaking clearly and concisely, using appropriate language, and asking thoughtful questions.
6. Prepare questions to ask at the end of your interview
Finally, as much as they are assessing your suitability for the role you are also assessing whether this is a place you want to work. Asking questions does two things: lets the interviewers know you are seriously interested and provides you with information about the company, the culture, management style and benefits to see if they align with you. Examples of good questions to ask at the end of your interview are:
How would you describe the company culture?
What would you expect this role to achieve in the first 6 months to a year?
What does progression for this role look like
Preparing for an interview is a crucial step in landing your next role. By researching the company and role, practising your responses, dressing appropriately, knowing who you will be interviewing with, practising good body language and communication skills, you can increase your chances of making a good impression and landing the job. Good luck we know you’ll smash it!