How to tackle interviews
Job interviews are usually nerve-racking experiences, especially for new graduates who might be unfamiliar with the process. The important thing to remember is that everyone will be feeling the same apprehension you feel. But there is no reason to fear interviews, because with the right preparation and plenty of practice you’ll be well on your way to a job offer.
Below are a few important tips to help you prepare for a successful interview.
Do your research
It’s important to take the time to carefully research both the job you are applying for and the company you want to work for. Carefully read the job advertisement and a full job description. If a job description isn’t included with the original job listing it may be available on the company website. If not, you should contact the company directly and request one.
It’s useful to spend time on the employer’s website to make sure you are well versed on the company and what they do. Carefully read the ‘About us’ page and any information they provide about employment or career opportunities. It may also be useful to look at any information about the key company staff, as well as any media or news sections. If you can access them, company annual reports are also an invaluable resource to learn more about your prospective employer.
Results from Graduate Careers Australia’s (GCA) Graduate Outlook Survey (a survey of Australian and New Zealand employers who regularly recruit graduates) reveal that the job applicant’s knowledge of the organisation was rated ‘fair’ or ‘poor’ by over half (55.8%) of employers surveyed. This may indicate that many graduates need to invest more time and effort into thoroughly researching prospective employers and perhaps generating appropriate questions prior to interviews.
Rehearse the interview
Think about the sorts of questions you are likely to be asked during the interview and carefully consider your responses. It’s important to appear confident without sounding too rehearsed. You will probably be asked to provide examples from your past experiences so try to have a few anecdotes prepared - perhaps of times you’ve used your initiative or come up against a difficult situation. Keep your responses clear and succinct. Use positive examples of your achievements and past experiences, never dwell on negative experiences.
Ten questions you may be asked:
- Why do you want the job?
- Why should we employ you?
- What do you see yourself doing five years from now?
- What are some of your biggest accomplishments?
- How do you take direction?
- Can you work under pressure?
- Can you give some examples of times you’ve dealt with a difficult situation?
- What do you see as your strengths and weaknesses?
- Can you give some examples of times you’ve used your initiative?
- Do you prefer working in a team or individually?
Interviewers will usually give you an opportunity to ask questions so try to think of a couple to show that you have thought about the job and the company.
Sample questions you might ask:
- What career advancement options will I have within the company?
- Does your company have a professional development program?
- What kind of goals will I be aiming to achieve in my first year of work?
- How would you describe the office atmosphere? Does the company encourage staff interaction through social events or charity fundraising, for example?
Ask someone to run through a practice interview with you. This will help develop your communication skills, give you experience in dealing with difficult questions and build your confidence. Ask your practice interviewer for feedback and to watch out for any common mistakes such as mumbling, not making eye-contact or speaking too quickly.
Before the interview ensure you confirm important details such as location, time and the name of your interviewer(s).
It’s also a good idea to look up the interview location and ensure you know exactly how to get there and how long it will take. You might even want to make the journey before the big day so that you feel extra confident you know where you’re going.
Aim to arrive about 30 minutes early to allow for any hold-ups on the way. It’s much better to spend a bit of time waiting before the interview than to turn up late. Use this time to go for a short walk, grab a coffee or do any last minute preparation.
During the interview
Do:
- greet your interviewers with a friendly smile and a handshake
- minimise nervous habits like nail biting, fidgeting and giggling
- avoid using slang and words such as ‘like’ and ‘you know’
- maintain good eye contact and if there is more than one interviewer try to talk to them equally.
- relax, be confident and smile.
Don't:
- be late
- make derogatory or negative comments about a previous employer
- interrupt anyone
- lie about your skills, qualifications or experience
- leave your mobile phone switched on
- try to manage or direct the interview.