April is National Stress Awareness Month and we know just how stressful interviews can be!
Interviews have dramatically changed in recent years and long gone are the days where you sat for 30 minutes and answered a bunch of competency questions.
Companies are constantly evolving their interview techniques, from digital interviews to projects and presentations.
It’s becoming increasingly difficult to get your personality across and to gain an edge against other job seekers interviewing for the same role.
Here are our best tips and tricks to help you at your next interview.
Research, research, research
Knowledge is power – and we don’t say this lightly. The best way to gain an edge in an interview is to really dedicate time to researching and understanding the company.
This isn’t reciting the home page of their website to them, or their about us page. Of course, it’s always crucial to understand what they do as a business, but going deeper than this will give you that all important edge.
Find out about any charity initiatives they have. Research other arms of the business. Take a look at their blog and pull out an interesting article. Look for recent news stories about their accomplishments.
Tell your story
Your CV is your story – so tell it! When you get the opportunity to talk about your experiences and achievements, be prepared to bring them to life. Give real-life examples, don’t just list them, and then apply the roles and responsibilities set out in the job description.
For example, have you managed a large team of people on a big project? Talk about how you found this and how you think the skills you learned would help you succeed in this role.
Practice makes perfect
Practicing common interview questions and scenarios is always a good way to prepare for an interview.
Even if the interviewer doesn’t ask those questions, you’ve practiced good tone of voice, pace of speech, and appropriate body language – all great things for an interview.
Showcase your unique value proposition
What sets you apart from other candidates? Identify your unique skills, experiences, or perspectives – make sure to highlight what makes you stand out. This can be both in your professional life and your personal too!
Be your authentic self
Be yourself during the interview, letting your genuine personality shine through. Employers aren’t just looking for qualifications; they’re assessing cultural fit and teamwork potential.
Prepare thoughtful questions
An interview is a two-way street. Come prepared with insightful questions that demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the company.
If you need any support with great questions to ask, we’ve got a handy guide right here.
Dress the part
Your appearance speaks volumes before you even utter a word. Dress professionally, adhering to the company’s dress code or opting for a slightly more formal attire if in doubt!
Pay attention to grooming and personal hygiene, ensuring you present yourself as polished and put-together.
Learn from each experience
Whether you land the job or not, every interview is a learning opportunity. Reflect on your performance, identifying areas of strength and areas for improvement.
Use feedback constructively to refine your interview skills and approach for future opportunities!
In the competitive landscape of job interviews, gaining an edge requires preparation, confidence, and authenticity. By implementing these tips and advice, you’ll not only stand out from the crowd but also increase your chances of bagging yourself that job!