The interview stage of the recruitment process can be so daunting! Who do you wear? Do you shake hands? Where do you report to? Should you be serious or is it fine to make jokes?
Deputy Head of LUMS Careers for Careers Education and Coaching,
Tanya Forrest (nee Parry)
, shares her #TopTips for interview etiquette in the UK below. You can find a list of example interview questions on the Careers Portal, and you can also practice video interviews there as well! You can also book an appointment with a Careers Coach for a mock interview, virtually or in person. We return to the office on the 2nd of January, but definitely consider these tips in the meantime!
- The interview starts as soon as you walk through the door or enter the Teams/Zoom call. Acknowledge everyone you meet at the business; a polite "hello" will do or a short introduction. Make sure to ask about them as well.
- If asked to sign in at Reception, make sure you do and try to make conversation with the team on the desk. This shows your soft skills. It isn't unusual for a hiring manager to ask the Receptionist how you conducted yourself when you arrived. (Remember: they want to see the real you, and they are looking for indicators of your usual behaviour.)
- Compliment the offices and show interest in any awards or accolades you see framed on the walls, usually exhibited in the Reception/Foyer area. This can serve as a nice conversation point.
- It is professional to take in a pen and notepad to take notes during the interview and to remind you of the questions you have to ask. (Write them down.)
- Shake hands with the interviewers on arrival if you feel comfortable doing so.
- Remember to smile during your interview. Do consider that, sometimes, the interviewer can also be nervous, and this will put everyone at ease. Ensure you use positive body language when they're speaking: nodding, smiling, small laughs where appropriate. Be human, even then the nerves kick in.
- During the questions you ask at the end of the interview, take an interest in the career of the hiring manager. Don't forget to ask about their career and for any advice/tips.
- A "thank you" at the end of an interview goes a long way, as does a follow-up thank-you email reiterating your interest in the role and a reminder that you enjoyed the interview at the business.
- Remember, interviews are a two-way process: you are being interviewed, but you are also interviewing them to ensure it's the right job and company culture for you.
- Humility is important during interview processes; you don't know everything yet. Make sure you make it clear that you are there to learn from the experts, and that you know you can't develop a career on your own.
Good luck implementing these tips! Reach out to the Careers Service if you have any questions.
