Preparing for a job interview can make all the difference in presenting yourself confidently and impressing your potential employer. Here are some interview tips and techniques – the do’s and don’ts along with preparation tips for a successful interview
The Do’s
Research the Company: Learn about the company’s mission, values, products/services, and recent news. Understand their culture and how you can contribute to their goals.
Practice Common Interview Questions: Prepare answers to common interview questions such as “Tell me about yourself,” “Why do you want to work here?” and “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
Dress Appropriately: Dress smartly and professionally, taking into account the company culture and industry norms. Ensure your attire is neat, clean, and reflects your professionalism.
Arrive Early: Aim to arrive at least 10-15 minutes early for the interview. This shows punctuality and allows you time to relax and gather your thoughts before the interview begins.
Bring Copies of Your CV: Bring multiple copies of your CV/resume, along with any other relevant documents such as certificates, portfolios, or references.
Prepare Questions: Prepare insightful questions to ask the interviewer about the role, company culture, team dynamics, and future opportunities. This demonstrates your interest and engagement.
Show Enthusiasm: Show genuine enthusiasm and interest in the role and company. Smile, maintain eye contact, and engage actively throughout the interview.
Highlight Achievements: Highlight your achievements, experiences, and skills relevant to the job role. Provide specific examples and quantify your accomplishments where possible.
The Don’ts
Don’t Arrive Unprepared: Avoid going into the interview without adequate preparation. Research the company and practice your responses to common interview questions beforehand.
Don’t Be Late: Avoid being late for the interview as it reflects poorly on your reliability and professionalism. Plan your journey in advance and allow extra time for unforeseen delays.
Don’t Overshare Personal Information: While it’s important to be personable, avoid oversharing personal information that is unrelated to the job role or interview questions.
Don’t Speak Negatively: Avoid speaking negatively about previous employers, colleagues, or experiences. Focus on positive aspects and what you learned from challenging situations.
Don’t Interrupt: Avoid interrupting the interviewer while they are speaking. Listen attentively, and wait for an appropriate moment to respond or ask questions.
Don’t Lie: Avoid lying or exaggerating your qualifications, experiences, or skills. Be honest and transparent, as any discrepancies may be discovered later in the hiring process.
Don’t Forget to Follow Up: After the interview, send a thank-you email or note to the interviewer expressing your gratitude for the opportunity and reiterating your interest in the role.
Preparation Tips
Mock Interviews: Practice mock interviews with friends, family, or career advisors to simulate real interview scenarios and receive feedback on your performance.
Research the Role: Understand the job requirements, responsibilities, and expectations to tailor your responses and demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Review Your CV: Familiarise yourself with your CV/resume and be prepared to discuss your education, work experience, skills, and achievements in detail.
Stay Calm and Confident: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or positive visualization to stay calm and confident during the interview.
By following these do’s and don’ts and adequately preparing for your job interview, you’ll increase your chances of making a positive impression and securing the job opportunity. Good luck!