8 Interview Tips from Recruiters
In this article, you will find 8 interview tips from recruiters to help you make the best impression.
An interview is a chance for an employer to see if you are the right person for the job. But, it is also a chance for you to make sure the job and company are a right fit for you.
If you have had an unsuccessful interview in the past, the important thing to do is learn from past mistakes.
Do Your Research
Without a doubt, this is the best piece of advice you can receive. Demonstrating your prior knowledge about a company and role can make you stand out from the rest. As well as this, it can highlight your interest in the position.
Some key areas for research include: company mission, values, or any recent news or events that the organisation has been involved in. Doing so will help you understand the culture of the business. Also, this can shape your answer about why you want to work for the company.
Dress Appropriately for the Position
When deciding on an outfit, go beyond the traditional smart attire and focus on the small details, such as ensuring clothes are free of wrinkles.
Following the above step and researching the company can help you decide whether it is better to wear something casual or more formal.
Ask Appropriate Questions
Having a pre-planned list of questions to ask the interviewer makes you look interested, enthusiastic, and engaged- which are all qualities that the employer will be looking for.
A good candidate will ask questions beyond the standard topics of salary and employee benefits.
Some useful example questions include:
- What does a typical day look like?
- Where do you think the company is heading in the next 5 years?
- What do you enjoy about your job?
- Can you tell me more about the team I would be working with?
Familiarise Yourself with the STAR Method
Whenever you are answering an interview question, you want to make sure that there is a structure and the takeaway message is clear. Using the STAR method can assist this.
Situation – briefly lay out the scenario using just enough detail that the interviewer will understand the context of your answer.
Task – talk about your specific role within the situation.
Action – discuss what you did and the reason behind this.
Result – discuss the outcome and what lessons were learned.
Body Language is Important
The interviewer will be aware that nerves will be high going into the interview, so it is important to outwardly project your confidence. Be aware of what you are communicating.
One of the most powerful non-verbal communication tools that can be used is a smile. Giving a genuine smile on arrival will make the interviewer feel as though you are pleased to meet them and looking forward to the interview.
If you are offered a glass of water, always accept (or bring your own water bottle). If you are nervous, this can give you something to do with your hands. Plus, taking a drink can give you a few seconds to pause and consider your answer to a question.
Prepare for Small Talk
When done correctly, interview small talk can build a strong rapport. Many benefits can come from this: making the hiring manager remember you, make you stand out even more, and help make an okay interview into a great one.
When meeting someone for the first time, it is generally not the best to bring up topics that may be perceived as offensive, uncomfortable, and inappropriate.
Some good small talk topics include: the weather, sports, entertainment, food, company news and events, and hobbies.
Be Polite
It goes without saying, always be polite.
Always be polite and friendly to the reception staff or the person that signs you into the building. This could work hugely in your favour as the hiring manager will often ask them for their first impression of you. Something so simple can make a huge difference.
Follow Up After the Interview
Finally, always follow up with a thank-you. A thank-you email is a great opportunity to demonstrate your excitement about the role and show appreciation for being considered for the position. It is recommended to follow-up within 24 hours of the interview.
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