Things to remember ahead of your interview
Don’t let nerves get in the way
Feeling nervous to an interview is natural, because you want it to do well and it matters to you that you do well. No matter how much preparation you’ve done and how confident you’re feeling, nerves will always creep up. Before you step through the door into the interview, take a moment to compose yourself and take some deep breaths if that helps. Once you’re in, don’t feel like you need to start talking as soon as the interviewer has asked their question. Sometimes it’s good to take a few seconds to pause in order to create a clear, concise and confident response.
Be yourself
Everyone else is already taken, so just be yourself. Be genuine and honest, allow your personality to shine through whilst still remaining professional in your conduct. Highlight all your best qualities and demonstrate what you as a person can bring to a company. Remember, they’re hiring a person, not a CV, so while you need to demonstrate relevant experience and skills, showing off your great personality will also give them a great idea of why you should be the one for them. If you don’t sell yourself, no one else will!
Be Prepared
We’ve talked about this before, but being prepared for an interview is almost as important as the interview itself. Research the company and the job, try and find out a bit about the interviewer too if possible. Brush up on your CV so you don’t get caught out by anything and prepare for some questions that you might get asked. It’s also a good idea to find out things like how to get there and where’s best to park in advance, to avoid getting flustered when you get lost on the day.
Build a great foundation
The idea of building a rapport with the interviewer is to demonstrate that you share a similar professional outlook and work ethic. Show genuine interest in what the interviewer is saying and positively express your enthusiasm for the role. This will ensure you leave the best possible impression.
Create your own impression
It’s easy to think an interview is only a one-way process, but it’s not. It’s also a chance for you to get a feel for the company, the job, and the people. It’s important that you feel comfortable about the company you are interviewing for. Allow yourself the opportunity to take in your surroundings. Do the staff look happy? Is there a good atmosphere? Does it look like somewhere you could work? If you like what you see, don’t be afraid to tell the interviewer that you can see yourself working there and let them know that you’re interested in the role!
