7 steps to ace any job interview?

If you are reading this blog then you may be someone who has already begun the job interview process or perhaps are still debating whether to make a career change at all. Whilst for some a new job can open up various opportunities, the pressure to demonstrate all your greatest attributes, skill sets and relevant experience using brilliantly executed interview techniques may seem quite daunting.?

To tackle these pressures, it’s important to prepare for your interviews to convince the interviewer that you would be the best suitable candidate for the role. Once you have been offered a time and date for your interview, you may wish to consider the following 7 steps to ace your job interview:

1. Research the company before your interview

An important interview tip to take into account is to research the company before attending your interview. As pointed out by Indeed , whilst you may not have grasped an in-depth idea of what the company does and stands for, this is your chance to showcase a keen interest in joining the company by sharing your knowledge and understanding of the company culture and values. Remember to browse on the company’s website, social media channels and even key staff LinkedIn profiles!

2. Check the job description?

It’s vital that you refresh your mind of how your skills and qualifications would best complement the job role you are applying for. Reviewing the job description may give you indirect insight into what the interviewer is looking for. For example, the job description may highlight some key role responsibilities that may be expected of you. Try practising some examples of how you may have tackled these responsibilities in the past by illustrating the work experience and skill sets that helped you do so.?

3. Practice the STAR method

Another interview tip to bear in mind is to use the STAR method. The STAR acronym, standing for ‘situation’, ‘task’, ‘action’ and ‘result’, has been known to help highlight how your past behaviours and experiences can help you adapt to achieve your work goals. In an interview setting you may be asked competency-based interview questions such as “give me an example of a challenging situation and how you handled it…”. For more examples on how to use the STAR interview method for success check out the BetterUp Platform today.?

4. Dress appropriately?

According to 65% of recruiters, clothing and appearance are regarded as deciding factors when choosing the right candidate for their company. Now is the time to consider what you will wear for your interview as your chosen attire can leave a lasting impression. The success of your interview can even come down to the colour of your interview outfit!

5. Arrive early to your interview

As well as having control over your physical appearance, your punctuality can also tell a potential employer a lot about yourself. It is always worth double-checking with your recruiter or direct contact what time your interview will be and the name of the person you need to see. That way if you arrive a little earlier than expected you are able to pass on a message to said individual who may later be impressed by your punctuality and eagerness to attend the interview.?

6. Prepare some interview questions

Towards the end of your interview you may be given the opportunity to ask some of your own interview questions. We would recommend that you prepare these in advance, perhaps when researching the company or whilst reading through the job description. Having good job interview questions such as “what opportunities are there to grow?” can demonstrate an interest in the role and company. Be sure not to ask about pay or holiday at this early stage!

7. Prepare for the interview feedback?

One final interview technique to remember is how you will prepare for the result of your interview. If you are successful in your job interview, would the terms of the role prompt you to accept a job offer??

More about interview techniques?

For further information on interview techniques and tips, check out the National Careers Service .

#interviewtechniques #interviewtips #jobinterviews