If you’re preparing for a job interview, browse through our 22 interview tips to increase your chances of winning the position. This information will give you an advantage when applying for jobs and get you ready for the job interview process in today’s competitive markets.
Research
1. The organisation
Find out about who your interviewing with. Look at their website, recruitment information, annual report(s), and search for media articles about it.
2. The industry
Which industry sector does the organisation operate in? What is currently impacting the sector and what developments are likely to impact in the future?
3. The job
Examine the job on offer in details, including the position and/or person specification. Search the web for profiles of employees who hold the same or similar roles and read the relevant occupational profiles.
Check
4. Directions and parking
If you can, drive to the interview location in advance and park so you can see how long the journey takes.
5. Paperwork
Remember to bring any paperwork, licenses or official documents you’ll need to show.
Confirm
6. Logistics
Make sure you know the interview time, expected length and location.
7. Interview type
Ask what type of interview is being conducted and whether there will be any tests or group exercise.
8. Materials
Will you need to prepare anything specific, like a presentation.
9. People
Find out who will be conducting the interview. Look up their LinkedIn profile to get more of an insight into them.
Practise
10. Questions and answers
Review the questions you think may be asked and plan your responses.
11. Role play
Enlist a friend or family member to do a mock interview.
12. Be positive
Visualise going through the full interview experience and performing well.
Dress
13. Match the culture
Choose an appropriate outfit for the job, company and the industry, including clothes, accessories and make-up.
14. Prepare
Decide on your outfit well in advance and ensure it is clean, ironed and ready to wear.
15. Be well-groomed
Personal grooming is essential.
16. Smell nice
Avoid wearing overpowering fragrance. If you smoke, resist the temptation to have a cigarette before the interview.
Plan
17. Be early
Arrive about 10 minutes’ early – late arrival for a job interview is never excusable. If you’re running late, phone the company to let them know
18. Come prepared
Bring extra resumes to the interview and put them in a professional-looking folder. If you have a portfolio, also bring that to the interview.
Be positive
19. Early night
Get a good night’s sleep. Read our tips if you can’t sleep before an interview.
20. Be comfortable
Eat well and drink plenty of water on the day.
21. Think positively
Think positive thoughts about getting through the interview successfully.
22. Be polite
Greet the receptionist or assistant with courtesy and respect and make a good first impression.
Further information on preparing for a job interview
Want more job interview tips and help preparing for a job interview? Ask about our career coaching programs.