Ten top tips for a job interview

Many find the job interview the most challenging and nerve-wracking stage of the employment search process.

But with preparation, practice and positivity it needn’t be.

As the community’s leading employment and business support organisation, at Work Avenue we help thousands of people each year.

Here, Work Avenue employment adviser Hannah Dahan shares her experiences and 10 top tips to ace that interview.

1. Don’t rush

Make sure you plan your route to the interview, pick an appropriate (usually formal) outfit and aim to arrive at least 15 minutes early to ensure you don’t feel rushed.

2. Test your equipment

If your interview is online, still arrive early. Check your camera/microphone and computer/app you are using are working properly at least one day in advance.

3. Do your research

Study the company in advance, by visiting their website, checking their social media pages or any news articles about them, and speaking to anyone you know who works there.

4. Match what you say to what they are looking for

Ensure you keep a copy of the job advert to prepare for your interview. Think of some examples where you have shown each skill that is asked for in the person specification.

5. Use the STAR method

When answering questions which require you to give an example, use the STAR method (Situation Task Action Result). Your Work Avenue Adviser can explain this in more detail.

6. Plan for tricky questions

Prepare positive answers for all the tough questions that may come up, such as why you left your previous role or explaining gaps in your CV. Interviewers may also ask about your weaknesses or to explain what you’ve learned from a previous failure.

7. Body language is key

Remember body language and ensuring you make the best first impression is vital. This includes dressing smartly, making eye contact, good posture, smiling, being polite, professional and friendly, and speaking clearly.

8. Beware of cultural sensitivities

Be aware of any cultural or restrictions, such as the interviewer may not be able to engage in a handshake with the opposite sex if they are more religiously observant.

9. Come on one of our courses

We run a regular interview skills workshop to help you practice of all of the above. We also have a one-hour YouTube demonstration with invaluable tips and practice scenarios here – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nr9F87e2SeA

10. Make an appointment

Make an appointment with an Employment Adviser from Work Avenue. We can help prepare you for your job interview, build your confidence, work on any key areas you need help in and even run through mock questions with you.

Click here to book your FREE one-to-one Employment Meeting.