Interview Tips

All your jobseeking efforts up until this point have been aimed at securing an interview. That’s the hardest part. Your resumes, your application letters, selection criteria, your phone calls, your research: these are all simply tools to help you get to the interview stage. Congratulations! That in itself is an achievement. Many companies have to sort through hundreds of applications before settling on a shortlist containing only a few applicants who have met the initial criteria. You’ve put in a big effort to get this far, so don’t let yourself down at the interview.

The key to a successful interview is preparation. Hopefully, by the time you have reached this stage, you will have done your research and gained a pretty good understanding of the job you are applying for, the company, its culture, its staff, its products and services. The more information you have at your disposal, the better you will perform. Arm yourself with as much intelligence about the company as you can.

At the most basic level, find out exactly where the interview is being held and plan to arrive at least 5 minutes early. There is no excuse for being late to an interview, and doing so will reflect very poorly on you, regardless of how good a candidate you may be. Even if you think you know where their offices are, double check just to be sure. For example, a large office block often has more than one entrance, and you could waste time going through the wrong one. And even if you do manage to make it on time, you’ll then be flustered and won’t be able to perform at your best. Doing a drive by a few days beforehand is usually a good idea, especially if it's in an unfamiliar city.

The better prepared you are, the more relaxed and confident you will feel, and this will greatly improve your interview performance.

Confidence. Without it, you may as well not turn up. Next to preparation, confidence is the second most important piece of the interview puzzle. Note, its confidence, not arrogance. There is a difference. Don’t be flippant with your replies. Don’t belittle other people or other companies. Try to enjoy the experience.  Respond clearly and concisely and speak with conviction. If you are passionate about something, don’t be afraid to let it show. For whatever reason, some people also check their personalities at the door when they attend an interview. Relax. Smile.  Be friendly. Be yourself. This will also help put the interviewer at ease and reduce the level of stress in the room. Remember that the person doing the interview may not always be an experienced HR practitioner, and could be just as nervous about having to conduct the interview! Also, keep in mind that an interview is a two way communication process, so have some intelligent questions prepared to show you’re really interested.

Interview Checklist