Interview Tips

Prepare for a successful job interview

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking. Use this interview guide as a checklist to help you prepare!

Practice your interview

Practicing will prepare you to answer the interview questions as best as possible, and can help you feel less anxious too!

• Know yourself – memorise your top five strengths, weaknesses and accomplishments.
• Familiarise yourself with the types of interview questions the employer may ask you.
• Write down answers to your questions and practise answering them out loud.
• Rehearse your answers in a mock interview with a friend or family member.

Research the employer

If an employer can see that you’ve researched their company and that you know a bit about it, this shows that you are interested in the role – and it gives a good impression.

• Find out as much as you can about the company/business.
• Look up the company or employer online, visit their website, Facebook page and Linkedin page to learn more about them.
• Read their Annual Report and news articles about the company.
• Visit the Human Resources page on their website.
• Speak with people who work at the company or who work in the same industry.

Dress appropriately

What you wear to your interview can say a lot about you. Consider what you will wear to an interview to create a good first impression.

• Choose your outfit the day before the interview to ensure it’s ready to go.
• Make sure your outfit is neat and tidy to give a great first impression.
• Wear something you feel good in to boost your confidence.
• Dress conservatively – and dress appropriate to the role! 

Know how to get there

You might be the perfect candidate for the job – but if you’re late, this can leave a bad first impression.

• Practise getting to the interview location beforehand.
• Arrive 5-10 min early.
• Check the bus routes and train timetable a day or two before.
• Know where you are going to park, and have a back-up plan in case you can’t find parking nearby.

Don’t forget the essentials

If you have all your documents at hand, this shows the employer that you’re prepared. You may also need these documents before or during your interview.

• Bring with you copies of your resume, cover letter and key selection criteria.
• Take some form of photo ID, like your driver’s license.
• Bring a copy of the Job Description.
• Bring a notepad/paper and pen.

Present yourself well

The employer will consider your personality to determine whether you are a good fit for the role, for their team and for the organisation.

• Smile - every second counts.
• Be friendly, positive and confident.
• Maintain eye contact when listening and speaking.
• Sound enthusiastic and demonstrate your interest for the job.
• Use positive body language – face the interviewer, and don’t fold your arms.
• Try not to fidget.
• Generate active two-way conversation with your answers to questions.

Talk about your skills

An interview gives you an opportunity to discuss the skills you’ve listed in your resume, and elaborate on any key skills the employer is looking for.

• Give 1 to 2 minute responses – not too brief and not too long!
• Discuss your specific accomplishments and examples of your work that demonstrate your ability to do the job.
• Outline your skills and experience from previous positions and how this experience can relate to the new job.
• Give examples that demonstrate your initiative and enthusiasm.

Ask Questions

Asking questions shows that you’re genuinely interested in the role.

• Ask questions, even if there’s nothing more you need to know just yet.
• Prepare at least two questions you would like to know the answers to before your interview.
• You may want to find out about training or career development opportunities, or who you would be working with as a team.

End on a high

First impressions matter, but so do last impressions too! 

• Clearly state your interest and enthusiasm for the position.
• Ask about the timeframes and next steps in the recruitment process.

For further tips on job interviews, visit the website below:

Job Jumpstart

Discover other helpful tips and guides for job seekers:

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