Tips and Insights for Making Your Best Impression
Job interviews can stir up all sorts of feelings – nerves, excitement, anticipation, and sometimes a bit of dread.
Whether you’re fresh out of Uni, changing careers, or aiming for a promotion, mastering interviews is a key step towards landing your ideal role. Here’s one perspective on navigating interviews as a candidate, with practical tips to help you shine and avoid common pitfalls.
1. Preparation is Everything
Start by researching the company.
Have a squiz at their website, social media channels, and recent news articles. Understanding their values, products, and culture will help you tailor your responses and show you’ve done your homework.
Jot down some key facts or questions you might want to ask.
Practice common interview questions (“Tell us about yourself”, “Why do you want to work here?”, “What’s your biggest weakness?”) out loud. If possible, have a friend or family member do a mock interview with you. It might feel a bit awkward at first, but it’s better than freezing up on the day.
We can supply you with a list of Potential Interview Questions you may get asked at Interview, also sample questions you may like to ask the interview panel.
2. Polish Your Presentation
First impressions count. Dress appropriately for the industry – corporate roles might call for business attire, while creative or tech jobs may be more relaxed. When in doubt, go a smidge more formal. Make sure you’re neat, tidy, and arrive with time to spare. Running late because you couldn’t find a park or got stuck in traffic won’t win you any points.
3. Mastering the Interview Room
When you meet your interviewer, offer a firm handshake, make eye contact, and don’t forget to smile. Listen carefully to questions and take a second to think before answering – it’s perfectly fine to pause and collect your thoughts. Use examples from your experience to back up your claims (“At my last job, I…”). If you don’t know the answer to a question, it’s better to be honest and show willingness to learn rather than try to bluff your way through.
4. Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Asking questions shows you’re genuinely interested in the role and the company.
Consider questions like:
- What does a typical day in this role look like?
- How would you describe the team culture?
- What are the biggest challenges facing the team right now?
- What opportunities are there for professional development?
5. Navigating Tricky Moments
It’s normal to feel stumped by a question or to have a blank moment. If it happens, don’t panic !!
Take a deep breath, ask for clarification if needed, or say, “That’s a great question – let me think about it for a moment.” Most interviewers appreciate honesty and composure under pressure.
If you’re asked about weaknesses or mistakes, frame your answer around growth and learning. For example: “In the past, I struggled with public speaking, but I’ve since taken workshops and volunteered for presentations to build my confidence.”
6. Follow Up
After the interview, send a brief thank-you email. Express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the role. It’s a simple gesture that can set you apart from other candidates.
7. Learn from Each Experience
No matter the outcome, treat every interview as a learning opportunity. If you don’t get the job, politely ask for feedback. Take note of what went well and where you could improve. Over time, you’ll refine your approach and gain confidence.
Final Thoughts
Remember, interviews are about finding the right fit for both you and the employer. Be authentic, stay positive, and back yourself. With preparation and self-awareness, you’ll navigate interviews like a pro and be well on your way to landing your next gig.
Good luck!