7 Interview Tips That Will Help You Get the Job

Here are Headway’s job interview tips to help prepare you for interview effectively. Proper preparation will help alleviate some of the stress involved in job interviews, and the more you prepare, the more comfortable and successful you will be at interviewing.

1. Practice and Prepare

Practice your responses to the typical job interview questions and answers most employers ask. Think of concrete examples you can use to highlight your skills. The easiest way to do this is to make a list of the job requirements and match them to your experience. Providing evidence of your successes is a great way to promote your candidacy.

Also, have a list of your own questions to ask the employer ready.

2. Research the Company

Do your homework about the employer and the industry so you are ready for the interview question “What do you know about this company?” Try to relate what you have learned about the company when answering questions. Know the interviewer’s name, and use it during the job interview. If you’re not sure of the name, call and ask prior to the interview. Building rapport and making a personal connection with your interviewer can up your chances of getting hired. People tend to hire candidates they like, and who seems to be a good fit for the company culture.

3. Get Ready Ahead of Time

Don’t wait until the last minute to pick out an interview outfit, print extra copies of your CV, or find a notepad and pen. Have one good interview outfit ready, so you can interview on short notice without having to worry about what to wear. When you have an interview lined up, get everything ready the night before. Make sure your interview attire is neat, tidy and appropriate for the type of firm you are interviewing with.

4. Be On Time (That Means Early)

Be on time for the interview. On time means five to ten minutes early. If need be, take some time to drive to the interview location ahead of time so you know exactly where you are going and how long it will take to get there. Give yourself a few extra minutes to visit the toilet, check your outfit, and calm your nerves.

5. Try to Stay Calm

During the job interview, try to relax and stay as calm as possible. Remember that your body language says as much about you as your answers to the questions. Proper preparation will allow you to exude confidence. Take a moment to regroup if you need it. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer. Listen to the entire question (active listening) before you answer, and pay attention – you will be embarrassed if you forget the question.

6. Show What You Know

Try to relate what you know about the company when answering questions. When discussing your career accomplishments, match them to what the company is looking for. Use examples from your research when answering questions, “I noticed that when you implemented a new software system last year, your customer satisfaction ratings improved dramatically. I am well versed in the latest technologies from my experience with developing software at ABC, and appreciate a company who strives to be a leader in its industry.” Here’s how to make a match between your expertise and the company’s requirements.

7. Follow Up

At Headway, we will always follow up with the client to get feedback after your interview. However, it is always good to hear back from you first and understand if there are any follow up questions you have for us.

If you follow these 7 pointers you should be well on your way to the next round or even a straight offer. If you have any questions about your interview feel free to contact the office. Your consultant will be more than happy to give you any more help.