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Survival Guide - Succeeding in a Job Interview

  • Publish Date: Posted over 4 years ago

A job interview can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially if you’re not prepared. And after securing the interview it would be a shame if you didn’t go the extra mile to secure the job! So, it’s important you know how to prepare and put your best foot forward and if you follow these simple tips everything should (hopefully!) be smooth running!

Do your research!

Going into a job interview with sufficient knowledge of the company you’re applying to work for is almost essential for your success… more knowledge = more confidence! An interviewer will always notice the efforts you’ve put in to create a good first impression and knowledge of the company shows that you are driven and engaged – not just there for the pay package. You should be able to find out about the company on the internet, if the company uses social networks it may also be useful to look at these and get a taste for what the company is really like!

Dress for success!

The most important part of a job interview is the beginning. Some say an interviewer knows within the first 30 seconds whether the candidate has a shot at getting hired or not; therefore, your attire is important! Unless you have been given a specific dress code for your interview, sticking with the traditional suit and tie or smart dress/skirt and blouse is the safest option, this shows you’re not only smart but that you take pride in your appearance and the impression you make.

Interview practice!

Although no two interviews are the same, there are general questions/topics that tend to come up, these include…

  • Can you tell me a little about yourself?

  • Why should we hire you?

  • Why do you want this job?

  • What do you know about the company?

  • What do you consider your greatest strengths/weaknesses?

  • Tell me a time you have demonstrated leadership…

  • Why are you leaving your current job (if applicable)?

  • Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?

  • What do you want to get out of this position?

  • What can you offer to the company?

Preparing for these types of questions and others you may think will come up allows you to feel calm and confident in your interview.

Using appropriate language

It’s vital you use appropriate language throughout your job interview, understanding what is appropriate to say and what should be avoided. Refrain from using phrases such as ‘I never make mistakes’, ‘I don’t think I’ve ever had a failure’ or ‘I always give 110% in work’ etc as they are disingenuous. Instead, use phrases like ‘Whenever I make mistakes I ensure it is a learning curve and I use the knowledge to ensure it doesn’t happen again’ to show the employer that you recognise that you make mistakes but you are willing to learn from them and put your acquired knowledge into practice in the future.

DO’s and DON’Ts

  • DO shake your interviewers’ hand and greet them politely.

  • DON’T make derogatory remarks about previous employers – this doesn’t give a good impression!

  • DO bring a copy of all relevant documents, so you can refer to them if necessary.

  • DON’T talk too much!

  • DO make eye contact.

  • DON’T be late!

  • DO ask questions – selection is a two-way process. You should prepare these in advance.

  • DON’T lie – chances are you may be caught out!

  • DO use your body language to your advantage! Your body language reflects your attitude and willingness, don’t allow this to let you down!

Through following these simple steps and preparing as well as you can you should succeed in your interview! We wish you the best of luck with your job search and any upcoming interviews you may have! If you are still looking for a vacancy click here to browse our site!​