At Charterhouse everything we do starts and ends with this concept of “People Over Placements, Always”. Outwardly this manifests itself in how we communicate, opting for transparency, detail and unbiased counsel. Part of this is how we conduct job interviews with potential candidates. We want them to feel confident and comfortable.
It can be daunting going into a job interview without being prepared - chances are your potential employer will want to meet with you to discuss the role on offer, whether that be in person or virtually. A job interview is typically the last step in the recruitment process so nailing your interview puts you in good stead for landing the job.
Remember the old adage: “proper preparation prevents poor performance” - it’s no secret that being prepared can certainly help you stand out from the other candidates and potentially increase your chances at securing the position.
Below are some helpful tips and tricks to help you ace your next job interview:
1. Do your research:
Research the company, the role, and the workplace culture before your interview. This’ll give you valuable insights into the company itself and ensure you’re up to speed with their operations. This’ll also help you to deduce what their dress code is and dress appropriately for the interview.
Make sure you re-read the job description so that you can discuss the position and the requirements associated with it comfortably. Think about how you can illustrate the desired skills with your experience
Review your resume and know it well, highlight your experience relating to the job you are interviewing for.
The company values, this will help you know what the company looks for in a candidate and allows you to position yourself as the best candidate for the position.
Find out about the key players you are interviewing with and who the role reports into, look up about the individuals on linked in.
Know the company – learn about the company “you may be asked why you want to work here? ”its better to have too much information than too little.
2. Communication skills:
Speak slowly, mindful speaking, maintain a sense of calm and remember that your interviewer should be able to hear every word you say. Speak slowly and confidently. Your words will be better absorbed, and your self-confidence will be admired. Eye contact is equally important and rapport building.
3. Rehearse what you’re going to say:
Prepare an introduction - something short and sweet about who you are, what your qualifications and experience are is a nice way to start. Have a list of questions to ask the interviewer about the role, the company and the expectations that they have. Review common interview questions related to your experience and the job description. Make a plan to present your strengths, employees often ask candidates about their challenges and how you overcome the challenge.
4. Do a drive-by:
Scope out the location beforehand so you arrive on time the day of the interview - there’s nothing worse than arriving late to a job interview! Make a good first impression by arriving 5 minutes before your interview.
5. Dress Appropriately:
Generally, a job interview calls for you to wear professional, or business, attire. This might mean: A suit jacket and slacks with a button-down shirt and tie. A sweater and a button-down shirt. Just remember that first impressions count.
6. Mentally prepare:
A job interview can be daunting and it’s important to make sure you’re in the right headspace. Give yourself plenty of time beforehand to settle any nerves or apprehension you might be experiencing. Get into a positive and confident mindset as you prepare for your interview.
7. Bring a notepad and copies of your resume:
Take a notepad and resume is a recommendation in today’s modern workforce! It’s a good idea to take some short notes during your interview of any key details or information given to you. On the off chance that there’s more than one interviewer, bring multiple copies of your resume.
8. Always start off with a handshake:
Let’s assume your interview is face-to-face - Creating a positive first impression is so important because you’ll most likely be one of several candidates being interviewed on the same day; introduce yourself to your interviewer and start off with light conversation to break the ice. This will ensure your interview starts off on the right foot and create a positive image of who you are from the get go.
9. Maintain positive body language and eye contact:
Convey confidence with a positive and warm disposition; try to maintain an appropriate amount of eye contact with your interviewer throughout the interview and keep your body language open and positive. This will leave a lasting impression.
10. Keep it simple:
When answering questions keep your answers short and stick to the point.You should also be prepared for the topic of your pay/salary being discussed by having a good idea of what you’d expect to be paid for the role if you’re asked.
11. Finish on a positive note:
No matter how the interview goes, leave a good lasting impression by finishing your interview on a positive note. In order to gain some insight into how the interview went, politely ask the interviewer what the next steps are for you and if you need to follow-up with them or vice versa. Not only does this show you’re proactive and interested in the role, their body language will give you subtle clues as to how the interview went.
12. Follow up with a thank you email:
Set yourself apart from the crowd of potential candidates by sending a follow-up courtesy email. Simply thank the interviewer for their time, including a compliment or nice remark about the company overall.
We hope these steps will better prepare you for your next job interview - just remember to be the best version of yourself and come prepared.
