The Do’s and Don’t’s of an Interview

Job interviews can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. It is a unique opportunity to showcase your skills, personality, and potential to a prospective employer.

You only get one opportunity to make an impression!

Whether you are just starting your career or looking to make a professional leap, understanding the unspoken rules of interviews is essential.

In this article, the key “dos and don’ts” of interviewing will be broken down to help you make a memorable, positive impression while securing your dream job.

Do:

• Research the company: Familiarise yourself with the company’s services, products, values and what they are all about, by going over the company’s website and social media pages. Mention a few key facts in your interview, as this shows you went out of your way to do research and will leave them impressed.
• Know your resume: Have a look over your cv and ensure you know your reasons for leaving, main responsibilities, job titles etc. as this could be asked in the interview.
• Presentation: Look presentable. Dress professionally and appropriately for the position and company culture.
• Be Punctual: Arrive on time. It is always a good idea to drive to the interview location before your scheduled time, to ensure you do not run late or get lost.
• Be attentive and have the right attitude:
  • Listen actively and make eye contact.
  • Have high energy and smile.
  • Be confident and don’t be nervous. People always hire someone they can talk to and who smiles.
• Sell yourself: Show them your value and why you would be an asset for the company. Highlight your achievements and strengths related to the opportunity.
• Questions: Prepare good questions – this could be about the role, the team or the company!

Don’t:

• Arrive late: This does not give the best first impression.
• Dress Inappropriately: First impressions count – avoid casual or unprofessional attire.
• Speak negatively about past employers: Badmouthing former colleagues or bosses raises red flags. It appears unprofessional and could make the interviewer wonder how you would potentially speak about them in the future.
• Be unprepared: Employers want to see what you can contribute to the business – being unprepared for a first-round interview shows a lack of initiative and interest.
• Be too casual: Maintain a professional manner.
• Interrupt the interviewer: Allow the interviewer to finish their thoughts properly by not interrupting them, or cutting them off mid-conversation or statement .
• Be dishonest: Be honest about your experience and skills – the interviewer will not only appreciate this, but this may give you a competitive “edge”; resulting in you becoming shortlisted!

Acing the interview is all about presenting yourself as a professional and prepared individual, while showcasing how passionate you are about the opportunity! When you follow the “dos and don’ts” of an interview you will make a great impression!

Every interview is different; therefore, you should take the chance to grow and adjust your approach.

Be yourself, smile and have fun!