Interviews are a golden opportunity to showcase your qualifications and potential to prospective employers. It’s a pivotal moment when employers evaluate whether you and your skills align with the demands of the job. Naturally, you’ll want to present yourself in the best possible light. To help you seize this chance with confidence, we’ve collated invaluable insights from experts at a leading Essex recruitment agency.
DO: Always Look the Part
This may sound like an obvious tip to some, but you should always dress appropriately for your job interview. Different offices will have different dress codes, with most modern offices opting for a more casual business approach. Check the company’s specific dress code requirements; occasionally, employers will state the dress code explicitly if not, consider getting in touch with the employer and asking them directly if you are still unsure. For interview, as a rule, it’s better to dress up than dress down.
DO: Your Homework
In-depth research of the company, its ethos, and the position you are applying for, will make the difference between being considered a strong applicant or just another candidate. The more you know about the business, the more confident you’ll be in your ability to effectively respond to all the interview questions and queries.
DO: Prepare Questions
Most job interviews will end with the opportunity to ask the interviewer any questions. Always prepare thoughtful questions to showcase to your interviewer that you were fully engaged and genuinely enthusiastic about the job role. Make a list of questions ahead of time, focusing on topics such as company culture, hot industry topics, growth opportunities, and specific projects.
Be Confident
Since it’s the first impression you’re giving, you’ll want to be confident, in control, and relaxed during your job interview. In addition to being well-prepared, confidence can also be expressed by answering questions slowly, shaking hands firmly, remaining composed, and making an effort to feel at ease throughout the interview. A good interview should be enjoyable, so try to relax.
Don’t: Lie
During an interview, you may feel that is the occasional lie might be in your best interests, or that it is your only option. Well, don’t! Whether it’s about your previous work experience or your favourite animal, it’s never worth it. The chances of being caught out are high, and veteran interviewers will be able to spot a lie from a mile away.
Don’t: Arrive Late
This may seem like an obvious no-no, but you’d be surprised how many candidates arrive late for interviews. Allow yourself half an hour to get to the location of your interview, so you have time to decompress, go for a walk, or drink some water. Resist the temptation to grab a coffee just before an interview; it can linger on your breath!
Don’t: Bad Mouth Past Employers
First of all, criticising a former (or current) employer is completely unprofessional and can create a negative atmosphere in your job interview. It also suggests that you were unable to resolve issues with an employer and suggests a level of emotional immaturity. If you have anything negative to say about past experiences, try rewording it in a positive light, or follow up with how you resolved the issue and would avoid the situation if it were to arise again.
Secondly, you have no way of knowing whether your prospective and past employer know each other – they could be friends!
Don’t: Forget to Follow up
Following the interview, you should always try to send a thank you letter or email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. This is another small gesture that will set you apart from the rest of the candidates. If you were asked anything at interview that you couldn’t remember, or needed to find out, make sure you include this information. This will help to demonstrate your enthusiasm, commitment and attention to detail.
Contact a member of our team today for additional interview preparation. Pursuit Group is dedicated to assisting people in achieving their career dreams and goals.
