We have all been there, you are waiting to be called in to the interview room and you have a list of things to remember swirling round your mind such as;
· The name of the person interviewing you
· The key services and information of the company you could be potentially working for
· Your key skills/expertise against the offering job role
· Your CV history, dates, places and references
The whole process is overwhelming, stressful and ridged!... however, it doesn’t have to be! In this blog, we explore interviewing techniques and key preparation that will guarantee you the job of your dreams, with little stress or fuss.
Preparation
It sounds extremely obvious, but preparation is essential when it comes to interviews. It shows commitment, enthusiasm and professionalism. Preparation doesn’t have to just be research about the company you are hoping to join, but also preparing to answer questions about the job role and knowing your CV/work history inside and out. In an interview, you are showcasing your key skills and personality, and you want the company to see the best version of you. On the day, preparation helps you be able to relax and really enjoy the interview experience by positively interacting with the interviewer and confidently answering their questions.
First Impressions / Body Language
First impressions can be what makes or breaks you being chosen for the role. Did you know that 55% of first impressions are made by what we see (visual), 38% is what we hear (vocal). It can take as little as a minute for someone to make initial judgement, and you want that to have a lasting positive impression.
It may seem slightly superficial, but when being interviewed, it is always best to dress professionally despite what role we are applying for. Choosing a smart outfit reflects consideration, preparation and demonstrates that you take pride in yourself. Always give good eye contact to the people in the room, eye contact shows attention, and allows us to reflect how we think and feel – it also allows us to build up a repour with the people interviewing.
Good body language reflects our personality, and provides a strong indication of who you are, and how you suit the role. It gives an insight to your level of communication, your professionalism, your stance on speaking to people. If you are entering a customer facing role, the interviewer wants to see openness, professionalism and an approachable manner.
Communication
Clear and concise responses is what keeps the recruiter interested. In a nod to our research/preparation prior to interview, this is where that preparation really comes to life. Your communication will be fluid and you will ooze confidence. Just remember to keep professional and ensure that all your answers are to the point but relevant. To be scared to inject enthusiasm into your communication, this lets the recruiter know that you are excited for the opportunity, it also channels your personality, which is what you want to showcase.
Always have some questions to ask the person interviewing you relevant to your role or about the company, this shows interest and allows you to converse with the interviewer outside the typical interview questions (a further chance to show your personality!).
Know your CV / Key Skills
Remember to bring out all your key skills relevant to the job. Interviewers tend to always ask for examples of when you performed a certain task or did something relevant to the role, so always be prepared to give relevant examples and to think about your current role, your skill sets, and what you can bring to the role. This is your chance to really sell yourself and to bring out things that may make you head and shoulders above your competitors.
Your CV is a record of your work life, and some people fabricate education, skills or qualifications, which later get caught out when being questioned. Always make sure your CV is accurate and you know your history. Interviewers tend to ask about dates, previous roles and the responsibilities you have undertaken. No matter how long ago the job was, always speak confidently, enthusiastically, and have a reason as to why you left the role (career progression, headhunted, new opportunities, relocation, etc).
Enjoy it!
Never fret about interviews, you have been chosen because your CV matches what the interviewer is looking for. Interviews are good experience, so don’t feel disheartened if you do not get the position. It is all good practise, and you can take away lots from the experience, and learn from the process.
Be confident, prepare and go for it! You got this!
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