You have an interview, well done! That means you’re already ahead of potentially hundreds of other candidates.
So how do you approach this next step and secure the job?
Research
The worst thing you can do is turn up to the interview and have very little to no idea about the company. It will make you look uninterested.
Research terminology, industry-specific, and who works at the company- whatever is available. Your main goal should be to go in with a good base of understanding and knowledge about the company, that you can build upon.
Don’t forget- You’re interviewing the company as much as they are you.
Look the part
First impressions count, and the way you dress is an easy indicator of whether you should be there or not. But it’s important to remember that not every role is the same. If the job is office based, then a suit or smart shirt is a must. However, the same might not apply to a more hands-on role.
Gauge what type of clothing is appropriate and prepare in advance, even if it is only from the waist up when online! If you know someone in the same or a similar field ask their opinion, what would they wear?
A firm handshake
There are few things more uncomfortable than a weak handshake. Ensure you introduce yourself properly with confidence, and you’ll hopefully get the interview off to a good start.
However, many interviews are done online now, so what’s the equivalent? Make sure your equipment is ready and be early, and show the employer you are interested in the role. Something you might not have thought of is to make sure that you are in clear view of the camera, sit up straight and smile. It will go a long way!
More than 70% of communication is non-verbal and 55% of that is through body language, so make it count!
Be yourself
People will see through a façade, and your own personality will be much better than a fake one. Approachability, personality and a friendly face go a long way towards convincing potential employers that you’re the right fit for the job.
Everyone suffers from pre-interview nerves, but the only way to get over them is to attend as many interviews as you can and practice.
So get your foot in the door, and make that dream job your career.
