Job interviews can be stressful, but there are a few steps that you can take to help ensure that you come across as polished and professional, and eliminate any unnecessary stress or nerves. Having trouble landing interviews? Consider using a CV template to help you get started.
Make sure you're ready for your interview!
Research the Company
Before your interview, take some time to research the company. Look for details about the history of the company, its mission and goals, and any information you can find about the person or people who will be interviewing you. It’s unlikely that the interviewer will quiz you about the company, but it always looks more professional if you have some background knowledge. Doing this type of research can also help you learn about the company’s culture, which can inform everything from how you dress for the interview to your tone and level of professionalism while speaking.
Prepare for Common Interview Questions
Many interviewers will ask some variation of the same few interview questions, such as:
Can you tell me a little bit about yourself?
Why do you want this job?
What makes you the best candidate?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Why should I hire you?
Think about these questions in advance and prepare some general speaking points so you can answer confidently and intelligently. Some interviewers may throw completely random questions at you in the interview (such as asking about your favourite music artist or what book you read most recently), but these are often a test of how well you can function under pressure. Take your time to consider your response, and use humour to your advantage if you need time to think.
Think of Your Own Questions Ahead of Time
Almost all interviewers wrap up by asking if you have any questions for them, so it can be in your best interest to prepare a few basic questions to fall back on in case you can’t think of any when the time comes. It’s not always necessary to ask questions during this phase of the interview, but it can make you seem more engaged and interested if you have a couple of questions ready. You can write these down on a notepad and bring it with you to the interview if you are worried that you’ll forget, and use your notepad to take notes as necessary.
Practise Your Presentation
You may be asked to give a presentation to the interviewer or panel. In that case, be sure to prepare your presentation well in advance and practise it a few times to ensure that you can deliver it smoothly and there aren’t any typos or errors in your slides.
Plan Your Outfit in Advance
Finally, plan your interview outfit in advance, and try it on for a dress rehearsal ahead of time. That way, you can ensure that it fits perfectly, there aren’t any wrinkles or stains, no buttons missing, and so forth. Aim to dress one level more formal than what the employees wear to work on a daily basis. For example, if they wear business casual to work, wear business professional to your interview.
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