Top Ten Interview Tips

If you find yourself struggling during a job interview then check out our top ten tips that can help you win the job you are interviewing for!

Tip 1 – first impressions count
It’s obvious but very true. Make a positive first impression: arrive in good time; smile; be positive and warm; don’t be negative or critical. Have positive, interested body language and pay close attention during the job interview (i.e. do not look distractedly out of the window!)

Tip 2 – do your research
Spend time carefully researching your potential new employer and their products before the interview. Get a brochure and read it. Read their website. Then, at an appropriate time, make reference to something about the company or the product you have found out.

Tip 3 – listen
Listen to the question asked and answer that question and that question only. If you must digress, make sure you clearly link what you say to the question asked.

Tip 4 – don’t take over
Let the interviewer run the job interview their way - even if you think they are doing it badly.

Tip 5 – answer the question
Remain positive and answer their questions, giving them the information they want.

Tip 6 – make eye contact
Keep your eyes on their eyes. One of the most common breaks of eye contact occurs when people are thinking of an answer, and this is no excuse. While you are thinking, remain attentive to the person you are speaking to. Maintaining eye contact is important but we suggest you avoid prolonged staring as this could make the interviewer feel uncomfortable.

Tip 7 – Consider your achievements
It’s one thing to set out your strengths in an interview but you will make a far better impression if you can also provide relevant examples of when your strengths have enabled you to excel in the workplace.

Tip 8 – speak their language
Frame the answers to your questions in their language. Every industry has a favourite lingo. If you are crossing industries, use their ‘buzz words’ instead of your old ones to show you have done your homework and can relate to their way of thinking.

Tip 9 – give them a reason to hire you
Towards the end, express your interest in the position and give them genuine tangible reasons why you are interested. Be positive and confident as you ask them for some feedback on your suitability for the role. Finally, reinforce your interest and ask if you can be taken to the next stage.

Tip 10 – relax
Relax during the job interview and be positive. The company is interviewing people because they need someone

Remember: most interviewers are looking for reasons to employ people in the job vacancies they have available.