The job interview is the most important and nerve-wracking part of a job search process. It’s your best chance to show the company that you are the right fit for the role. Thus, preparation is vital. We’ve prepared our job interview tips to help you succeed.

Review the job description and learn about the company

The first step in the preparation process should be analysing the job description. Make sure to align your strengths with the skills required for the role. If you are applying through  Hard Hat Recruits then your recruitment consultant will be able to provide you with a detailed job description.

Learn about the company before you attend an interview. Doing some research will help you understand the company’s values. It will give you not only understanding of the business but also knowledge of what sort of questions you can ask. If you demonstrate knowledge about the company it will show you are really interested in joining its team.

Plan your journey and dress appropriately

To make sure you arrive on time plan your journey in advance. Ideally, it’s better to arrive 5-10 minutes early to give yourself a chance to look around and to relax. Don’t forget to check the traffic reports and have a backup route planned just in case.

Wearing the right clothes to the interview won’t get you the job, but the importance of first impressions cannot be overstated. Make sure you look smart. Dress professionally. Wear business attire appropriate for the role, while still making sure you feel comfortable.

On the day of an interview

On the day of an interview don’t forget an up-to-date copy of your CV. Give yourself enough time – don’t put yourself under extra pressure by having to rush. When you meet the interviewer make eye contact and begin with a strong handshake. It will show your confidence.

A big part of conducting a face to face interview, is for the company and hiring managers to get to know you, your personality and your potential ‘fit’ with those that you will be working most closely with.

It is important that you relax enough that they have a chance to get to know a bit about you.

If you have made it to interview stage, then it is likely that they are reasonably confident that you have the correct experience for the role. But now they need the opportunity to understand the person behind the CV.

Do

  • Smile, be positive and make eye contact
  • Good posture is important – sit still, with your feet firmly on the ground, don’t cross your arms
  • Listen carefully and reply to any questions clearly and concisely
  • Make a note of your questions and points to return to
  • Remember your CV details. In particular, the experience most relevant to the role you’re interviewing for.

Don’t

  • Be late. If it is unavoidable call ahead to let your interviewer know your expected time of arrival
  • Never interrupt
  • Just answer with a yes or no. Try to expand your answers
  • Fidget
  • Smoke before your interview
  • Criticise your current or previous employer

Thank the interviewer for inviting you and again shake their hand.

Congratulations! You made it through the initial interview process but don’t stop there. Make yourself memorable by sending a quick email within 24 hours of the interview. It will reiterate your interest in the role and keep the lines of communication with your potential employer.

Remember to believe in yourself and your abilities. You wouldn’t have been selected for the interview if the company didn’t think you could be the right person for the role.

Please register with Hard Hat Recruits team www.hardhatrecruits.co.nz for job opportunities. We look forward to working with you.