INTERVIEW PREPARATION

Have a Great Time Interviewing with our Guide

Plan your Journey

When you receive an invitation for an interview, it's important to plan your journey in advance. This is particularly crucial if you're relying on public transportation. Make sure you have the necessary details such as dates and times sorted out. Arrive at your destination 30 minutes early if needed and wait to go in 5-10 minutes before the scheduled time, to give yourself ample time to relax and compose yourself. There is no excuse for being late for an interview it can negatively impact a first impression.

Research the Job Role and Employer

To prepare for an interview, it's essential to do some research. Start by checking out the employer's website and social media pages. Take notes on what the company does, the services they provide and their values. This information can be helpful in demonstrating your skill set, interest and suitability for the role during the interview. Additionally, make sure you're familiar with the job requirements and the skills they're looking for. You can do this by reviewing the job listing and searching for videos related to the role. By doing your research, you'll be better equipped to make a great impression during the interview. 

Plan your Answers

Preparing for typical interview questions can be highly beneficial. By planning your answers beforehand, you can boost your confidence prior to the interview. Have a look online and do some research into typical interview questions, note them down and prepare your answers. Additionally, it's a good idea to review your answers with a family member or friend to receive constructive feedback and enhance your responses.

When interviewed, it is important to pay close attention to the questions and take your time in answering them clearly. When nervous this can cause rushed responses, so it is best to stay calm and collected. Rather than giving brief, one-word answers, provide more detailed personalised responses. This approach will help you distinguish yourself from the other candidates.

If you're unsure about a question, it's perfectly fine to ask the employer to repeat it. This will give you time to think of a thoughtful response. Don't hesitate to ask for clarification because being honest is crucial to showcasing your skill set effectively.

When preparing for an interview, it's important to consider scenario-based questions. These types of questions can be challenging if you're not prepared for them. To avoid stumbling, it's recommended that you plan and have ready different scenarios that demonstrate your skills, attributes, and personality traits from your previous work experiences. It can be good to be reasonably concise, relevant and recent with any examples you give.

Prepare Questions to Ask

Prepare questions to ask the employer as it's crucial to ask questions during the interview to gain more information about the job, organisation, and work culture. This will help you determine if the job is a good fit for you. Asking 2-3 questions will also demonstrate your enthusiasm and curiosity to the employer.

Examples of questions to ask:

  • What will a typical day look like at your company?

  • How big is the team I will be working in?

  • Are there opportunities for career progression within the company?

Preparing Documentation

When attending a face-to-face interview, it's advisable to have a printed copy of your CV with you to reference or distribute as needed. It's important to be familiar with the content of your CV and ensure that it's up to date so that you can easily refer to it. During the interview, the employer may request additional information about a particular aspect of your work experience, so it's essential to refresh your memory beforehand to avoid getting stuck while answering questions.

Before the interview, be sure to check with the employer or interviewer if there are any necessary documents or certificates that you need to bring. This will ensure that you are properly prepared and do not arrive without the required documentation.

 

Preparing for Telephone and Online Interviews

Before your telephone interview, it's important to research the company and job role thoroughly. Have your phone on loud, be in a quiet, still location and make sure to promptly return any missed calls from the interviewer.

For online interviews, select a location that's quiet and well-lit, with a professional background. Dress appropriately and ensure that your equipment is fully charged, your internet connection is secure and your camera is in good working order. Try to join the interview 10-15 minutes early to verify that the meeting invitation functions properly, so you can be on time for the interview.

 

General Friendly Reminders:

  • Remember the interview is just a conversation, the employer is trying to get to know you. It is also a chance for you to get to know the company to see if the role is the right fit for you.

  • Relax and be the best version of yourself, if it's not right for either party you can work towards a role that is, be positive and you will find the right role for you.

  • Turn your phone off or on silent before going into the interview.

  • Check the dress code with the employer and dress appropriately and professionally.

  • Ask if you need to bring anything.

  • Ask who you are meeting, you can research them.

  • Ask for the interview format.

  • Be professional and polite.

  • Be confident, ask questions and have a conversation if you feel that is right.

  • Bring a notepad and pen to the interview to take notes down if needed.

  • Have your reference's contact details at hand to give if needed.