6 Interview Tips for your next job

So, you’ve done the hard yards perfecting your resume and cover letter and secured an interview for your dream job.

There’s only one thing left to do – nail your interview!

Public speaking and interview settings can be a major anxiety-inducer for a lot of us, so keep reading for some insider advice from a recruitment coordinator on how to make a stellar first impression on your new team.

1. Be prepared

One thing I love to hear from candidates I interview is that they’ve researched the company they’re applying for. A quick and simple way to do this is to head to the company website and read their ‘about’ or ‘our values’ section. Having a sound knowledge of the company background and values before your interview and finding ways to relate them back to your own experience through the information you give is a fantastic way of showing that you’ve done your research and are serious about the opportunity to work with them.

2. Draw from your previous experience

Even if you’re applying for a role that doesn’t directly relate to your previous history, most experience can be transferrable. For example, if you have a background in retail and you are applying for a job in hospitality, mention how you provided customer-facing service on a daily basis, gleaned cash handling skills, and effectively managed complaints and disputes. This is a great way to show your hiring manager that you’ve thought hard about ways in which you can creatively transfer your skills to a new position.

3. Be punctual

This one seems simple, but as one of my previous managers used to say, ‘If you’re not 15 minutes early, then you’re late!’. Whether your interview is on the phone, over Zoom, or in person, being ready to go a few minutes early is a great way to set the tone for your reliability overall. As someone who interviews candidates daily, it is very easy to tell the difference between people who are prepared and have centred themselves before the interview, and those who have run in just on time and need a few minutes before they are able to speak calmy.

4. Be honest

Although it can be tempting to answer all questions in an interview in the way that you feel the hiring manager wants you to, honesty is always the best policy. It is better to be upfront about your skills and knowledge from the very beginning, so that you don’t end up taking on responsibilities in a position that you might not yet be ready for. More often than not, if you present well and have the right attitude, companies will be willing to train any gaps in knowledge you may have.

5. Ask questions

Coming to an interview with a few questions prepared is one of the easiest ways to show that you are invested in the opportunity to work with your prospective employer. These questions can be as simple as ‘what is your company’s 5-year plan?’ or ‘are there opportunities to upskill and grow within the role being offered?’. Asking questions like this will set you apart from other applicants and show that you have a genuine interest in the values and intricacies of the role/company you’re applying for.

6. Have fun!

This is another one that seems obvious, but presentation really is everything. This goes far beyond the way you dress (although this is important too!). Showing your personality is something that will set you apart from other applicants and may be the reason you’re hired over somebody else with the same qualifications. Smile, be open and honest, and show your prospective employer that your personality and demeanour will be the perfect fit for their team.

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