If you’ve been invited for a job interview, the recruiter thinks you hold the right skills and experience for the role. This is your chance to prove it to them and demonstrate in-person that you’re perfect for the job.
Before the interview, research the organisation, by looking at the website and any recent news articles which relate to them. Make a mental note of what they do, latest industry trends, and basic information like their number of locations and employees. You can use this information during the interview to show you’re genuinely interested in what they do.
Ask a friend or family member to help you practise common interview questions, to make sure you’re comfortable being quizzed. And remember to prepare questions for the interviewer too – this will show them you really want the job. Finally, remember that first impressions are important. Take the time to carefully consider what you’ll wear and prepare your route in advance.
During the interview, show the interviewer that you’re interested in the job by maintaining eye contact and using positive body language. Keep your responses relevant to the question; and clearly articulate why you want the job. And remember – take your time. Gather your thoughts so you can give a clear response, rather than just jumping straight in.
Be firm, and try to avoid using tentative language, such as “I feel I could…” or “I think I can…”. Don’t speak negatively about your previous employers, otherwise the interviewer may think you’re a difficult employee. And remember to end on a positive note. Professionally sum up why you think you’d be the perfect choice and thank the interviewer for considering you.
Following up on interviews
Before your leave your job interview, remember to ask about next steps and when you can expect to hear more. This will show them that you’re enthusiastic about the job opportunity and will manage your expectations on how long it will take.
When you get home, it’s good practice to send a quick ‘thank you’ message to the interviewer. This will show them that you appreciate them taking the time to consider you and will ensure you remain front of mind. It’s also a good opportunity to quickly reiterate why you think you’re the best person for the job.
If you don’t hear back in the indicated time frame, be proactive and call the recruiter to find out more. Again, it’s a good opportunity to remind them why you’d be a good fit. However, if you don’t get the job, don’t be despondent. Ask for some feedback and tips on how you could do better next time around.
Preparing for a second interview
Some employers will ask you to attend more than one interview as part of the application process. It isn’t the case for every role, but if you’re invited to attend a second interview, it’s important that you’re prepared to what’s ahead.
The second job interview is usually designed to dig deeper into your personality, suitability for the job, and your technical skills (if applicable to the role). They’re often conducted by someone else in the company and are another opportunity for you to demonstrate your capabilities.
Before the second interview takes place, try to find out who will be present. This will help you to pitch your answers appropriately. Also, think of more examples about your previous work achievements, so you’re not repeating yourself from your first interview.
Finally, the second job interview is also your chance to quiz the interviewer. Be prepared with lots of relevant questions about the job and the company, to show you’re enthusiastic about joining the team.
Accepting your new role
If you’ve been offered a new role, it’s important to be sure it’s the right move for you before accepting. Is the work/life balance correct? Does it fit with your overall career goals? Do you think you’ll be happy in the role?
If necessary, don’t be afraid to negotiate on pay and benefits. There are plenty of online resources which will help you to understand what you’re worth in the jobs market, based on your experience, skills and qualifications.
When it comes to resigning from your current employer, it’s important to make it as positive as possible. Write a short, direct resignation letter, and deliver it to your boss in person. Practise what you’re going to say in advance and how you’ll react to a counteroffer, to ease your nerves. Finally, ask any outstanding questions you have before you leave – that might be about benefits, unused annual leave and other compensation you’re expecting.
Remember, don’t burn your bridges. Resigning isn’t about airing your grievances. It’s about moving onwards and upwards to something new in a positive way.