Interview Preparation guide

We don't want you to walk into your next interview unprepared, so we've compiled our top job interview tips to help you succeed. Interviews these days can come in many different shapes and forms. No matter what form your interview process takes, our interview tips have got you covered. Remember, you never get a second chance to make a good first impression. However, good preparation takes the pain out of the process. Remember: prepare, prepare.

The job interview is probably the most important step you will take in your job search journey - it's your best chance to show the a hiring manager or recruitment company that you're the best person for their job.

Preparing for a job interview begins with the following:

1. Ensure your consultant has provided you with a detailed understanding of the position description, the team environment and the organization.

2. Conduct additional research on the organization by reading annual reports and researching on the internet. Understand the organization's products and services, size, locations, financial situation and growth potential.

3. One of the most important things to consider is how you are going to get there.

4. Dress conservatively and pay attention to all aspects of your dress and grooming. Wearing the right clothes to the interview won't get you the job, but wearing the wrong clothes will sink any chances of impressing the interviewer. There is one rule that stands above all: Dress professionally. Wear business attire appropriate for the role, while still making sure you feel comfortable.

5. Know the interviewer's full name and the correct pronunciation of their title.

6. Spend time reviewing your resume and experience and its relevance to the position. Identify the specific examples in your background that are directly relevant to the position description and demonstrate your ability to do the job.

7. Refresh your memory on the details of present and past employers and your work history for each. You will be expected to know a lot about a company for which you have previously worked. Pay particular attention to how you will describe your most important achievements.

8. Be prepared to communicate why this role appeals to you, why you should be considered for this role and what sets you apart from other candidates.

9. Prepare the questions you will ask during the interview. Remember that an interview is a two-way street. The employer will try to determine if you have the qualifications necessary to do the job. You must decide whether the company will give you the opportunity for the growth and development you seek.

Preparing for a phone interview
 

In today's digital world some hiring managers choose to conduct preliminary interviews by phone. Phone interviews can be challenging as you're not physically in the room with your interviewer and in some cases, you have to work even harder to stand out.

Take phone interviews seriously. Dressing as you would for any other interview will put you in the right mindset. Also, sit at a desk or table. It is important to create a setting similar to as you would be sitting in front of the hiring manager.

As with phone calls, video interviews can be tricky - The good news is, at least during a video interview, the hiring manager can see you.

Video interviews are a great way to connect and can save both parties the hassle of travel. Before your video interview make sure your technology is up to date and working. Take the time to also check that your surroundings are clean and tidy. It may seem obvious, but in the midst of delivering an answer, it can be easy to forget that you're sitting in front of a camera.