Preparing yourself for an interview is crucial because it allows you to showcase your qualifications, demonstrate your interest in the role and company, and make a positive impression on the interviewer.
So, what are the top five things you should always do before or during an interview?
DO’S
1. Do your research
Gain a thorough understanding of the company's background, products/services, mission, values, and recent news. This knowledge will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in the organization.
2. Make a good first impression
If you're going to a face-to-face interview, plan your trip there, do a trial run if it is at an unfamiliar location and arrive a few minutes early for the interview. For a video interview, testing your video tool the day before your interview, ensure you are set up and ready to go at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time, in a quiet and comfortable place.
3. Listen and respond accordingly
Too often the feedback from clients is that the candidate does not answer the question in a clear and direct manner. Don’t run circles around the questions, listen and answer accordingly while using examples from your experience to back it up.
4. Prepare smart, open-ended questions to ask the interviewer
Prepare a list of thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer(s) during the interview. This demonstrates your interest in the position and allows you to gather relevant information. Ask about the company culture, team dynamics, growth opportunities, or any specific projects you are curious about. Anticipate and practice common interview questions, such as "Tell me about yourself," "Why are you interested in this position," and "Describe a challenge you faced and how you overcame it." Prepare concise and structured responses that highlight your skills and experiences.
5. Show your skills and strengths
Reflect on your past experiences and identify notable accomplishments or projects that demonstrate your capabilities. Prepare specific examples that showcase your problem-solving skills, teamwork, leadership, and positive outcomes.
DON’TS
1. Don’t speak poorly about your current employer
The interviewer will assume you will do this to them if you leave and question your professionalism. This is a big red flag to anyone interviewing a candidate.
2. Don’t tell lies
Answer questions truthfully and as close to the point as possible. If you are being probed in an area that is not a strength, be honest and let your interviewer know you are willing to learn or work on and how you can up skill in this area. Follow that with strengths you have in another area that you could bring to the table.
3. Don’t speak over the interviewer
It is important to be a good listener as well as a good talker. It shows that you are respectful and have strong interpersonal skills. If you are interviewing via a video platform remember that there will be a slight time delay, avoid rushing to answer a question in case your interviewer hasn't finished speaking.
4. Don’t assume it isn’t an interview
Regardless of what interview stage you are at or who you are meeting - it may be over a coffee, a few drinks or just labelled a final chat - it is still used as an opportunity to assess your suitability for the potential role.
5. Avoid too many interviews in the same week
Finding a new job can be taxing, make sure you approach every interview as a new opportunity and learn from past interview mistakes. If you have several interviews lined up, try to leave some space between them to ensure you are at your best.