Success! You’ve applied for a job and have been shortlisted for interview. Now you need to make yourself standout from the other interviewees, not a simple task! Here are our top tips on getting through the interview process successfully, marketing yourself well and ensuring you’re the one who receives that offer of employment.
1. Research the organisation
This is paramount, as prepared candidates demonstrate their preparation through the questions they ask and the answers they give. Researching the company well shows that you are taking an active interest in the company and scores valuable brownie points with interviewers.
2. Research the interviewer
If possible, ensure you know who the person is sat in front of you. It will help your pitch and it is also an excellent relationship builder. Remember, impress them and they hire you – simple!
3. Always aim to get to an interview early
Make sure you leave more than enough time to make the journey to the interview, research the route or have directions ready. A trial run would also be useful if you are unfamiliar with the area and will cause less stress on the actual day of the interview. We all know that parking can be a time consuming nightmare so research and plan ahead!
4. Contact details
Always make a note of the interviewers contact telephone number in case you are detained on the way to your interview. Although not ideal, giving notice makes a better impression than just plain being late!
5. Your new boss could be stood behind you
Ensure you are courteous to every individual you meet when going to an interview. First impressions are key and you don’t always know who could be stood behind you when you are waiting in line at reception or indeed who you may be sat next to on the train. From the moment you leave your home to the moment you return, stay in interview mode! Don’t make the mistake that you think only people in movies make!
6. Link your experience and skills to the organisation’s aims and objectives
By doing this it shows that you have what they are looking for. Don’t forget to highlight big wins, let them know you have been successful in your previous role and remember to explain how you did it and how it could benefit their company.
7. Take an example work portfolio to interviews
Spending time preparing a portfolio of your past work to show interviewers shows that you are passionate about the things you do. It shows employers exactly what they can expect of you and your work. Showing something visual and eye-catching will also make the interviewers remember you.
8. Ask questions
We’ve already talked about doing the research; now make sure they know you have by asking comprehensive questions. Most job seekers research the organisation they are applying for but then when asked if they have any questions they forgo the opportunity. Take advantage of this moment; show that you have done the research and that you really want to work for this company. Be enthusiastic!
9. Take a pad of paper and pen to interview
There are two very good reasons for this; firstly it will show that you are well organised and prepared for anything! Secondly, interviews can be nerve racking and make you do silly things with your hands. Having a pen and paper gives you something constructive to do with your nervous hands!
10. Dress to impress!
First impressions are key, make sure you’re not ruining your chances just because of the way you dress. Always dress smart, even if you don’t think they are expecting it. If you’ve been invited to a two-day interview process, don’t save your best outfit for Day Two – make sure you look sharp and presentable for both days!
Remember you only get one opportunity at the interview stage. Make it count! These are just a few pointers but if you can do all the above well then you’re on your way to acing the interview and securing your spot as the number one candidate for the job you want.
