Top tips to help you ace your next big interview
Whether you’re a seasoned job hunter or are new to the job market, most people find interviews stressful. Here are a few tips to help you put your best foot forward and stay cool, calm and collected:
- Research the company
Show that you’re genuinely interested in the position and formulate good reasons why you’d be the best fit for the role by researching the company before the interview. Google them and browse their social media pages – this will give you a good idea of the company’s culture and values.
- Make a list of questions
After doing your homework, make a list of questions to ask the prospective employer during the interview. This helps you engage better with the interviewer and shows that you’re driven, eager and organised.
- Look the part
If you’ve researched the company’s culture, you’ll have an idea of its dress code. If suits and ties are at the order of the day, dress accordingly for the interview. If the company’s employees dress informally, wear a more casual outfit, but keep it neat and suitable for the workplace (in other words, avoid low-cut tops or T-shirts with inappropriate slogans).
- Know your CV
Read your CV again before the interview to refresh your memory on your past achievements and work experience. This allows you to answer questions with confidence. Like point 1 and 2, it also shows that you’ve taken the time to prepare and are therefore enthusiastic about the position.
- Wait before you ask about remuneration
Wait for the interviewer to bring up the subject of remuneration first. If you jump right in with questions about the salary, annual leave and other company benefits, it’ll seem as if you’re only interested in the perks of the job and not truly passionate about the role.
- Thank the interviewer for his/her time
This simple, polite act shows that you respect others and their time and would, therefore, be pleasant to work with.
Lastly, a few don’ts: Never lie about your skills or achievements. A little white lie might help you land the job, but you’ll be caught out sooner or later. Also, never make derogative personal comments about their previous employers. It shows disloyalty and that you might not be the best spokesperson for a company
Even if you weren’t the right fit for the job in terms of qualifications and experience, being prepared, presentable and professional could leave a lasting impression that could put you first in line for future positions.
Good luck with your next interview!