Does the idea of a job interview leave you sweaty palmed and quaking with fear? Don’t panic. If you are just starting out in the world of work, job interviews can be intimidating. But if you nail your interview preparation, you may even learn to enjoy them. Whether you are going for a part-time role or a graduate position, find out some top interview preparation tips below!
Why is it important to prepare for an interview?
You don’t want to be left unprepared before a job interview. As well as giving you a sense of confidence and control, it gives interviewers a sign that you are up to the task at hand. In other words, preparing for a job interview is key!
Things to do in an interview to get the job
Learn about the company and the role
- Prep and memorise your CV
- Look up common interview questions
- Dress for success
- Come prepared with your own questions
Learn about the company and the role
The best way to prepare for a job interview is to make sure you know what you are talking about. Cast your eyes over the company website to see where the company sits in the industry. Arm yourself with interesting points about the company and the role. Doing this will show you have a genuine interest in the company. What better way to earn some valuable brownie points with recruiters?
Prep and memorise your CV
You may think you know your career history like the back of your hand. Just to be sure, go through your CV and work out how your work experience ties into the new role. Your interviewer will definitely bring up elements of your CV, so make sure you can explain everything in detail.
Look up common interview questions
Preparing for every question is impossible, but preparing for the basics is essential. You don’t want to be left speechless when they ask you why you applied for the role. Wondering what interview questions to prepare for? Search interview questions for your job role online and build a document full of your answers. Make sure every answer includes an example to big you up.
Memorise your answers in the build up to the interview. If your question doesn’t come up, you can try and freestyle and answer based on what you can remember!
Dress for success
Getting ready for an interview isn’t just about what you say – you also need to look the part! No matter where you are applying, a smart shirt or blouse will help you make a solid first impression. If you don’t own any professional clothing, it’s time to invest. Remember – a hoodie or sneakers is a huge thumbs down.
Come prepared with your own questions
Show your interviewer that you are truly engaged by preparing some questions of your own. You’ll learn more about the company, and show that you are eager to hit the ground running!
Try your best to keep calm
Remind yourself – it’s not the end of the world if you don’t get the job. It’s natural for you to be nervous, and most interviewers will expect you to be. Why not follow up with your recruiter and ask them what areas you can improve on? Whatever happens, you’ll still come away with more interview experience than you had before.
