Unlocking the Secrets to a Successful Interview

Dear Conclav.io members,

?

Welcome to the latest edition of our cultural newsletter series, your go-to source for all things related to securing a internship/graduate scheme. In this edition, we're excited to share some valuable insights on approaching interviews for these sought-after positions.

Tip 1: Research is Your Superpower

Before stepping into the interview room, arm yourself with knowledge. Dive deep into the company's values, culture, and the specifics of the intended scheme. Make sure to know what the company is doing lately, either new deals or initiatives. If you are interested in the ESG space, research how your desired company has made strides in this, and how you would seek to contribute to their efforts. Useful tools include Bard(the Google AI chatbot), and alumni from your university who currently work at the company you are applying to. This research will empower you to tailor your responses, demonstrating how you're the perfect fit.

?

Tip 2: Practice Makes Perfect

Perfect your responses to common interview questions. Highlight your skills, experiences, and achievements that showcase your suitability for the role. Use a variety of academic and personal, (and if possible, corporate) examples. Use the STAR method to structure your answers effectively. This is the easiest way to present yourself in a coherent and understandable manner, which will make a positive impression on the interviewer. Be prepared to answer technical or non-typical questions for more analytical roles. Be sure to use the resources and templates on our website at conclav.io to prepare. Members can also schedule regular interview practices with their mentors to practice at their own pace or before important interviews and gain direct and personalised feedback.

?

Tip 3: Dress to Impress

First impressions matter. Dress professionally and (if in person) arrive a bit early to show respect for the company's expectations. Your appearance and punctuality reflect your commitment. If on camera, this also applies to your background. Avoid flashy or unprofessional posters or anything in your background which might not give a positive impression. Consider using the blur tool if this might prove challenging.

?

Tip 4: Active Engagement

During the interview, maintain eye contact, exude positive body language, and actively listen to the interviewer. Your attentiveness speaks volumes about your interpersonal skills. When in group activities, don’t try to be the loudest or speak the most, it might not be the best impression. Always seek to add value not volume to a conversation. A great example of this is offering to be the timekeeper, checking in with other who haven’t had a chance to speak, and make sure the group achieves their goal before the time runs out.

?

Tip 5: Ask Thoughtful Questions

Prepare insightful questions to ask at the end of the interview. This not only displays your genuine interest but also highlights your proactive approach to learning and development. Consider questions that are thought provoking, relevant, and avoid any controversial topics.

?

Tip 6: Confidence and Humility

Strike the right balance between confidence and humility. Showcase your passion for the industry and your eagerness to learn and grow within the company. Remember they’re not hiring a CEO. An intern or a fresh graduate is going to be in more situations where they must follow instructions than lead divisions. However, if you are comfortable with responsibility or leadership, don’t be afraid to convey this.

?

Bonus Tip: Technical Preparedness

Online interviews come with their own set of challenges, so being technically prepared is crucial. Test your internet connection, camera, and microphone in advance to ensure a smooth interview experience. Familiarize yourself with the video conferencing platform being used. Stick to a formal dress code, and make sure your background is professional and free from distractions. Online interviews can be a different beast, but with the right preparations, you'll tackle them with confidence and poise.

?

With these tips in your arsenal, you'll demonstrate your adaptability and readiness to excel in your internship or graduate scheme of choice. Interviews, especially in person, can be a different beast, but with the right preparations, you'll tackle them with confidence and poise. Remember, preparation and confidence are the keys to your success.

?

Stay tuned for more invaluable tips and insights in the next edition of the Career Success Newsletter!