Interview Prep 101

Congratulations, you’ve secured an interview for your dream job! But now what? After almost 20 years in the recruitment industry, we’ve sent countless candidates off to interviews, all of whom had different experiences with the interview process. We understand the nerves and excitement that come with this part of the job search journey, which is why we’re here now to equip you with the tools you’ll need to nail that interview.??

Welcome to Big Fish Little Fish’s Interview Prep 101!?

Consider this your roadmap to both confidence and competence in your interview. We’ll cover everything from body language to mastering common interview questions and standing out from other candidates. With advice cultivated from years of experience, we’ll turn those nerves into strengths and make sure that you’re ready to impress.??

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So, without further ado…??

WHY IS INTERVIEW PREP SO IMPORTANT??

Job interviews are not just about showcasing your skills and qualifications, that’s what your CV is for. The interview stage is about making a lasting impression on your potential employer and selling who you are rather than just what you can do. Like anything, preparation is the key to success with this, and solely relying on your CV is likely not going to be enough to secure the role. Employers will utilise the interview to see how you present yourself, communicate and handle pressure in face-to-face interactions. By investing time into the preparation for the interview, you will increase your chances of getting the job.?

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A JOB INTERVIEW?

1. Research the company??

It is essential to research the company you are interviewing for, not only to impress the interviewer but to also help you tailor your responses to align with the company’s goals and values. Make sure that you research things like the company’s mission, products, services, recent news and industry trends. This can be done on their website, social media profiles and even relevant news articles.??

2. Prepare your personal pitch?

This is just a brief summary of who you are, what you do and what makes you unique. Basically, it’s the ideal response to the dreaded ‘tell me about yourself’. This pitch should be short but compelling and should highlight your skills, experiences and career goals. This will provide the interviewer with a memorable introduction to your professional identity.??

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3. Master common interview questions?

Although you cannot predict every question you will be asked in your interview, there are plenty of common interview questions that you can prepare for. You should practice answering questions about your strengths, weaknesses, experiences and aspirations. You should also prepare for behavioural questions that assess your problem-solving skills, ability to work in a team and adaptability. If you struggle to structure your answers, you could use the STAR (situation, task, action and result) method. This ensures that you cover all necessary information and provide examples to further illustrate your capabilities.?

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4. Practice body language?

Now that you are more confident with verbally communicating, it’s time to master your non-verbal communication. Non-verbal communication includes things such as body language, facial expressions and eye contact; all things which can significantly impact the impression you make in an interview. Practising a confident posture, maintaining eye contact, holding a friendly expression and being mindful of your tone of voice are all ways to ensure that you come across as respectful, genuine and enthusiastic.??

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5. Dress for success?

First impressions do matter and your appearance will play a significant role in how you are perceived during your interview. Ensure that you dress appropriately and professionally for the company to show that you have put effort in for the occasion and that you are serious about the role. If you’re unsure what to wear, we recommend opting for conservative attire that reflects your professionalism.??

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6. Prepare questions for the interviewer?

You will likely be given the opportunity to ask questions at the end of the interview. This is a helpful way to demonstrate interest in the company and showcase your genuine curiosity and enthusiasm. Prepare a few thoughtful questions about things such as the company culture, team dynamics, role expectations and opportunities for advancement.??

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7. Review your CV?

Usually a potential employer will have already seen your CV prior to your interview so it is helpful for you to look over it yourself before attending your interview. This means that you can be prepared to discuss any key achievements, projects and skills that are shown on your CV. It is also useful to bring a copy of your CV to the interview with you along with any supporting documents or references you may need.??

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8. Learn how to manage your nerves?

Nerves are normal before an interview but an excessive amount of nerves could hinder your performance. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and positive self-talk. Focus on what you do bring to the table rather than what you don’t and remind yourself that this interview is a chance to showcase your skills and personality.??

Remember, preparation is key to success. With our tips, you can confidently navigate the interview process and showcase your full potential. We are here to support you along the way but the most important thing to remember to do is to trust in your ability- you got this!?