Preparing for a job interview can be nerve racking, especially if it’s been a while since you’ve applied for a new job. So, how can you calm the nerves and show up confident to your job interview?
In this blog, we will explore what you should do from the lead up to an interview, all the way to following up afterwards. Even if you’re still studying, getting prepared early will help you gain the confidence to put your best foot forward and get a leg up on your competition from the get-go.
Researching and practising for an interview will help you feel more prepared and confident to answer any question that comes your way. By preparing in advance, you can get a sense of the company, role, and some questions the interviewer may ask. Here are some things to think about leading up to the interview to feel ready.
It’s important to know more about the company you’re interviewing with. This gives you a better understanding of the company’s offering and culture before going in. It also shows them that you have a real interest in the company, which is appealing to prospective employers. You may find the following helpful.
Re-read the job description and conduct some role specific research. This can help you determine salary benchmarking and industry standards. You will also gain a better understanding of what the company might expect from someone in this role. Here are some free tools you can use to help you discover realistic expectations for your role and salary.
Come to the interview ready to answer any questions about anything on your resume. That way, you can highlight the value you can bring and paint yourself in the best light. Being confident and knowing your resume can also dispel any concerns the interviewer may have about your experience. Remember to bring a copy of your resume! Although most applications are online, it’s a good idea to have a printed copy of your resume or a PDF version on your phone ready to share. This way, if the interviewer needs a copy, you can provide it easily.
Here are some things you may forget when preparing for a virtual interview that will help ease your nerves and feel more prepared.
Another stressor when attending an interview is deciding what to wear. You want to look put together and professional, not too casual, yet comfortable. Whether the interview is in person or online, a good rule of thumb is to dress slightly more formal than what you’d normally wear to work.
The devil is in the details! Take notice of the small things that contribute to your overall first impression. Is your nail polish chipped? Are your shoes clean? Is your bag visibly messy? These small details may not seem like a big deal, but they add up and affect your overall presentation. Ensuring you have a tidy appearance goes a long way to showing that you are organised and put care into how you present yourself.
When you’re attending a virtual interview, it’s important to know your background. Ensure the room is well lit, tidy, and not too distracting. If you’re struggling to find a suitable background, consider using a virtual background. Most video conferencing applications have built-in background options you can use that are simple and professional.
A first impression can make a big impact on how your interview goes. Do your best to avoid any prejudice or negative opinions by considering the following.
Arriving late can reflect badly on you and make you more stressed for the interview going in! Make sure you allocate plenty of time, just in case anything happens on the road. Being a few minutes early shows that you’re organised and that you value the interviewer’s time. It also gives you the chance to check in, ground yourself, and calm your mind before heading in. Remember to take a deep breath to calm your body and remind yourself that you have prepared for a great interview.
If the interview is virtual, you should log on to the online meeting a couple of minutes before the scheduled start time. Remember to use positive body language and to smile more. This is essential for online interviews, as the interviewer can only see your head and shoulders!
Small talk can feel pointless at times, but it’s a great opportunity to learn more about the interviewer and find anything you may have in common. This can help you relax and gives you the chance to build rapport straight out of the gate. Talking with the interviewer more casually can also give you an idea of how you could fit into the culture of the company.
Don’t be afraid to ask the interviewer questions, too. Remember that an interview is also an opportunity for you to learn more about the role and the company. This can help you decide if it’s the right fit for you and if it’s something you’re really interested in. The research you completed in the lead up to the interview can help equip you with any questions you may have about the organisation or the role. This shows your interest in the company and demonstrations your initiative to research and plan. You can ask questions like:
Remember: when answering any questions, it’s okay to take some time to think about your responses. It’s also a good idea to try to speak slowly and confidently. This can help you get your point across while also making you easier to understand.
If no salary expectations have been set before the interview, this can be an awkward dance in conversation of whom reveals their cards first. This can be an intimidating conversation, but it’s an essential consideration for choosing your next career, so you shouldn’t be afraid to talk about it. Here are some quick tips to help navigate this topic.
Now you know what to do in a job interview. But what should you avoid? Not every topic of conversation is appropriate for a job interview, even in small talk. Here are some things you should avoid while in a job interview.
As the interview concludes, make sure you find out what to expect next. You can ask when to expect an update on the role, and what the next steps are. Knowing the timeline of the company’s recruitment process will help you feel less stressed while waiting for an update. It also gives you a timeline to work with so you know if you haven’t heard anything by that date, you can reach out and ask for an update. Your interest shows that you are proactive and organised, but don’t go overboard – employers may feel annoyed by constant emails and calls.
If the unfortunate happens, and you are unsuccessful, don’t worry! You can use this to help you succeed next time. Reach out to the recruiter and ask for feedback on your application. You can ask questions like:
If you are currently studying online with us, you can access the careers’ hub for complimentary job hunting resources. You can also ask your learning coach for help in preparing your resume and for any interview skills advice relevant to your diploma or qualification.
Implementing these smart job interview hacks will set you up for success in your next interview and help give you the confidence you need to beat the competition.
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