Top 5 interview Dos and Don'ts!

It’s no surprise that a strong interview is a determining factor in securing a new position. The more prepared you are, the more confident you will be - resulting in a better outcome. To ensure you put your best foot forward we have outlined some common interview social errors to avoid when facing the pressure of a job interview.

Here are the top 5 things you should keep in mind before or during the interview:

"THE DO'S"

?1.??? Do your homework

Preparation is the first essential step in the interview process, so don’t let yourself down before it’s even taken place. Researching the company you are meeting with will show your interest in the business and give you an upper hand.

?2.??? Make a good first impression

If you're going to a face-to-face interview, plan your trip there, do a trial run if it is at an unfamiliar location and arrive a few minutes early for the interview. Late arrival for a job interview is inexcusable.

?3.??? Listen and respond accordingly

Too often the feedback from clients is that the candidate does not answer the question in a clear and direct manner. Don’t run circles around the questions, listen and answer accordingly while using examples from your experience to back it up.

?4.??? Prepare smart, open-ended questions to ask the interviewer

Remember that an interview is a two-way street, asking questions will help illustrate your interest and motivation to succeed in the role and company, as well as get you noticed and separate you from other candidates.

5.???Sell your strengths and expertise

Make sure that you communicate your strengths to the interviewer in a concise, factual, and sincere manner.

As the Do’s help, you achieve that dream job the don’ts also play a very vital role when the interview is in the process.

THE DON’TS

1.??????Don’t speak poorly about your present or former employers

The interviewer will assume you will do this to them if you leave and question your professionalism. This is a big red flag to anyone interviewing a candidate.

2.??????Don’t falsify information

Answer questions truthfully and as close to the point as possible. Explain and describe things about yourself that relate to the position on offer, and truly reflect your past experience.

3.??????Don’t speak over the interviewer

It is important to be a good listener as well as a good talker. It shows that you are respectful and have strong interpersonal skills.

4.??????Don’t assume it isn’t an interview

Regardless of what interview stage you are at or whom you are meeting - it may be over a coffee, a few drinks, or just labeled a final chat - it is still used as an opportunity to assess your suitability for the potential role.

5.??????Don’t let any past rejections infringe on future ones

Finding a new job can be taxing, make sure you approach every interview as a new opportunity and learn from past interview mistakes. If you have several interviews lined up, try to leave some space between them to ensure you are at your best.