Ace The Interview 5 Steps to Interview Success
Job Seeker Blog
You spend hours on your CV and covering letter getting it just right, you take the time to find the right opportunities that may inspire you and move your career forward and then the call comes. The call you have been waiting for, you have been invited to interview! This could be the job of your dreams and you know there will probably be a lot of competition. All that you need to do now is convince the interviewers that you are the right person for the job.
So how do you ensure that you give yourself the best possible chance of success?
Here are 5 steps simple steps to get you moving in the right direction.
Step 1 - Preparation
Preparation is key to being successful in an interview, and a candidate that has taken the time to prepare will always stand out from a candidate that has not prepared. So make sure you allow time to do your preparation focusing on the following 3 key areas:
Preparation about the Company: - Understanding the company is important and shows that you are interested in the opportunity. Finding information out in areas like company structure, values and culture and the key people in the business can help you in the interview. Don’t forget that they may ask you questions about your knowledge of the company in the interview itself.
Preparation about the Job: - This is often something that is overlooked but having details about the Job, day to day responsibilities, and the skills, knowledge and attributes needed to perform effectively can be key to interview success. This information can help you when considering the types of interview questions they may ask you.
Preparation about you: - Armed with the skills that are considered to be important for the job, you can then start to prepare examples of when you have used that skill. This is also the time to get to know your CV and be able confidently talk through it.
Step 2 – Interview Questions
It is useful to consider what types of interview questions you may be asked and have your answers ready and prepared. You may have been told what type of interview you will be attending, which may help when considering the questions. Don’t forget to practice answering them aloud too.
Step 3 – Your Questions
It is important to prepare some questions for your interviewer(s) as it shows you are genuinely interested in the opportunity. Think ahead and consider the questions that you ask carefully, make sure that you don’t ask questions that have already been addressed in the interview.
Step 4 - First Impressions
So you have done your preparation and the day arrives and this is where your first impressions really count. Make sure you arrive in enough time so that you are not flustered. From the minute you step on the premises it is important to make a great first impression, so build rapport with everyone that you meet, make eye contact and smile. Continue to build rapport throughout the interview.
Step 5 – Closing the Interview
You may be thinking that when you have asked your questions there is nothing else that can be done, but it is important to leave the interview on a good last impression. You can check what the next stage will be and when you might hear, tell the interviewers how much you have enjoyed the interview and positively shake hands with everyone.
When you do your preparation the interview can be an enjoyable experience for both the interviewer and the interviewee. Remember that the interviewer wants to find the right person for the job and you could be that person!
If you’d like any further tips, check out these blogs: