Boss any interview with these 8 tips
As the latest member of The Handbook team, I thought it apt for me to take this one on. Interviews are daunting, we all know that clammy palm feeling as you sit in a coffee shop or office space, drinking your 7th coffee of the day in sweaty anticipation. However, interviews for your dream job can actually (and probably should be) quite fun, and perhaps the best advice I ever received was to treat it more as a conversation as opposed to a grilling. So, to help others jump into their desired job, here are some tips to help you boss that interview…
Get Cyber Stalking
Firstly, it’s the perfect platform to take a look at your potential interviewee’s employment history (who doesn’t love a nosy?). However, secondly, it’s also a great way to do some company research. Alongside LinkedIn, you could turn to Google and search up anything you can, or have a peruse of their blogs, YouTube channels, articles written about them, and more.
Suit Up, Look Smart
Dress The Part
It’s probably a given that you should dress the part for an interview. Having said that, I’m sure we’ve all heard the odd horror story or two about people who’ve been on a bender and ended up in the hot seat. Have an early night, make sure you’re well groomed, ready to go, and donning your smartest attire. It won’t do any harm to dress more formally than you might on the job (let’s face it, a few weeks in and the gym gear is on).
CV? Check!
Bring Your Documents
You may have been in an interview, and the interviewee says “Oh, I don’t actually have a copy of your CV to refer to” – there’s your chance to whip one out, and prove your organisation. Whether they’re testing you or they genuinely just didn’t have time, it’s your time to shine. Stay prepared and bring a copy of your CV, a list of references if you have them to hand and work samples.
The Early Bird...
Arrive Early
It sends shivers down my spine imagining being late for an interview. Plan your route a night or two beforehand, set enough alarms to wake a neighbourhood and get yourself down there 10/15 minutes earlier than needed. It also gives you time to take a deep breath and get yourself prepared.
One Step Ahead
Research The Company
Don’t get caught out and do extensive company research, and anticipate the kinds of questions you’ll be asked. There are a huge array of tools to research companies (see LinkedIn section), and by having a think about potential questions alongside company research you’ll be able to get those answers polished.
Question Master
Never Leave Without Asking A Question
It’s the question we know we’re going to get asked, and often one that’s super tricky to answer, especially after the interviewee has just divulged a vast amount of information about the company and role. So, here are some questions you could ask at the end of the interview to swerve that awkward silence.
How is feedback given to employees?
What will be the biggest challenge for the company over the coming year?
What’s the next step in your hiring process?
When can I expect to hear back from you?
Do you have any hesitations about my qualifications?
Thank us later…
Talking The Talk
Treat The Interview As A Two-Way Process
The prospect of an interview can be so daunting, but just think of it as a conversation. Essentially, you’re discussing the company and how you’d fit into the available role in order to aid them. It’s more of a transaction than an attempt to make you sweat, (in some cases anyway). The best interviews feel like compelling conversations, and if you go in believing this then, hopefully, it’ll help.
Behind The Scenes
Glassdoor Reviews
Glassdoor.co.uk is a great way to do that extra bit of research, allowing you to take a look at some of the reviews written about the company you’re interviewing for, from past employees. Their reviews could aid in articulating questions when it comes to the “is there anything you’d like to ask us?” part, or simply give you a better understanding of the company itself. Everyone needs the insider scoop after all.
