10 Tips

1. Researching the Company and Interviewer Profiles

Before your interview, don’t just review the company website - go deeper. Look up any recent news updates to understand their current priorities and challenges. Also, check out the LinkedIn profiles of your interviewers to learn about their roles and professional backgrounds. This insight can help you tailor your questions and show genuine interest in both the company and the people you’ll be working with. You could also use AI tools for additional insights, but be sure to verify the information, as bots can sometimes make mistakes.

2. Arriving for Onsite and Video Interviews

For onsite interviews, aim to arrive at least 15 minutes early but head into the building around 10 minutes before your scheduled time. This gives you time to settle and make a strong first impression, including with the reception staff. For video interviews, check your tech (camera, microphone, internet connection) at least an hour beforehand, and join the virtual room five minutes before the start to avoid any last-minute issues.

3. Icebreaker Small Talk

If the interview begins with small talk let this be led by the interviewer, keep it friendly, polite, and concise. Whether discussing the weather, your weekend, or a light topic, avoid going into long-winded stories. Keep your tone warm but allow the conversation to smoothly transition into the core of the interview. On the other hand, be prepared for other eventualities e.g. a straight down to business start or an ill-prepared interviewer still completing a previous task as they join the call. Either way, don’t let it throw you off your A-game.??

4. Answering ‘Give me an Overview of Your Background'

When asked to provide an overview of your background, focus on delivering a clear and concise narrative in under two minutes. It’s well worth practising this beforehand and even recording it to see how it flows on playback. The interviewer has your CV and has hopefully read it - either way they don’t want you to regurgitate it back to them. Talk about the wider background as a journey and emphasize the most recent experiences that are relevant to the role, supporting them with brief examples and data. After sharing your overview, ask the interviewer if that gives them a good insight and that you are happy to expand on any specific areas now or during the interview.

5. Answering Competency Questions with Examples

Many interviews include structured competency questions that align with specific job requirements and values. The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is a great way to structure your answers, but it’s just as important to make your responses feel natural. Use relevant, real-life work examples to illustrate your skills and strengths. Avoid sounding over rehearsed - balance structure with engaging storytelling to create a connection with your interviewer. Make sure these are real examples that will stand up to scrutiny and be clear about the ‘I’ and the ‘We.’ The interviewer will use your answer to probe specific details - if you are misrepresenting your involvement in the example expect that to be found it.

6. Handling Tough or Unexpected Questions

If you encounter a difficult or unexpected question, stay calm and composed. It’s okay to pause for a moment to collect your thoughts or even ask for clarification if needed. Starting with, “That’s a great question—let me take a moment to consider,” shows that you’re thoughtful rather than rushing through your answer. If you absolutely still don’t have an answer, be honest and avoid panicking or waffling.

7. Non-Verbal Communication

Non-verbal communication plays a big role in how you're perceived during the interview. Whether you are on camera or onsite maintain good posture, consistent eye contact, avoid fidgeting, and smile when appropriate. Your body language should project confidence and engagement. Pay attention to the interviewer’s non-verbal cues as well and adjust your tone and approach to keep the conversation flowing smoothly. Bear in mind for video you will need to consciously look into the camera to manage eye contact.? ??

8. Asking Questions at the End of the Interview

Always prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask at the end of the interview, but make sure you're not repeating anything that was already discussed. Asking questions shows that you’re interested and engaged but avoid asking anything that could make it seem like you weren’t paying attention. Focus on topics like company culture, team dynamics, or growth opportunities.

9. Thanking the Interviewer and Asking for Feedback

At the end of the interview, thank the interviewer for their time and the opportunity to discuss the role. If the interview felt positive, it's completely fine to politely ask if they have any initial feedback or thoughts on your fit for the role. After the interview, follow up within 24 hours with a thank-you email, reiterating your interest and referencing something specific from the discussion to leave a lasting impression.

10. Managing Nerves and Confidence

It's normal to feel nervous during an interview, but learning to manage your nerves can make all the difference. One effective technique is to focus on deep, slow breathing before and during the interview to keep yourself calm. Also, remember that you’ve been invited to interview because the company believes in your potential - remind yourself of your strengths and accomplishments to boost your confidence. And of course, PREP - I hope these 10 tips help.

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