Preparation Essentials
Research is Crucial
Know the Company: Familiarise yourself with the company’s values, history, and recent news.
Understand the Role: Thoroughly go through the job description to understand what’s expected.
Practice Makes Perfect
Mock Interviews: Schedule practice sessions to simulate the real thing.
STAR Technique: Situation, Task, Action, Result – a tried and true method for answering behavioural questions.
Do's
Dress appropriately for the role and industry.
Arrive early, ideally 10-15 minutes before the scheduled time. (Unless remote then just join thee link promptly)
Listen carefully and answer the question asked. (Try not to waffle)
Ask questions at the end of the interview - it shows your interest! (See examples at the bottom of the page)
Don'ts:
Avoid speaking negatively about past employers or colleagues.
Don't be unprepared. Have at least one example for common situational questions.
Avoid oversharing or providing long-winded answers.
Don't forget to follow up with a thank-you note or email.
Common Interview Questions
- Tell me about yourself.
- Why do you want to work here?
- Describe a challenging situation you’ve faced at work and how you dealt with it.
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Note: Remember to tailor your answers authentically to reflect your experiences and aspirations.
Managing Interview Anxieties
- Breathing Exercises: Take deep, measured breaths to calm your nerves.
- Visualisation: Picture a successful interview. Positive visualisation can boost confidence.
- Preparation: The better prepared you are, the less anxious you’ll feel.
- Post-Interview Reflection: Whether it’s a win or a learning experience, take time to reflect on what went well and areas of improvement.