Land the Job you Want!

You’ve applied for a job you really want, and you’ve secured a first-stage interview. Congratulations! Now it’s time to prepare and increase your chances of landing the role. Let’s break down the interview process step-by-step and equip you with the tools to succeed.

Before the Interview

• Deep Dive Research: Understand the company, its culture, values, recent news, and the specific role you’re applying for.
• Practice, Practice, Practice: Anticipate common interview questions and prepare thoughtful, concise answers. (Some examples of behavioural and scenario based questions can be found below)

Now that you’ve prepared thoroughly, it’s time to shine in your interview.

Video Interview

• Choose Professional Attire: It doesn’t matter that it’s a video call. Dressing appropriately also applies to video calls. Select clothing that aligns with the company culture while making you feel confident and comfortable.
• Set Up Your Space: Choose a quiet, well-lit location with a neutral background.
• Test Your Equipment: Ensure your camera, microphone, and internet connection are working properly.
• Eye Contact: Look directly into the camera, not at the screen, to maintain eye contact.
• Body Language: Sit up straight, maintain good posture, and use natural gestures.
• Minimise Distractions: Close unnecessary applications, silence notifications, and inform household members to avoid interruptions.
• Practice: Conduct mock interviews with a friend or family member to build confidence.

If you’ve successfully navigated the video interview, you’re one step closer to securing the job.

In-Person Interview

• Plan Your Logistics: Map out your route, consider potential traffic, and arrive early to avoid stress.
• Dress Professionally: Select professional attire to maintain a polished image.
• Master the Art of First Impressions: A firm handshake, eye contact, and a warm smile set a positive tone.
• Active Listening: Pay close attention to the interviewer’s questions and demonstrate engagement.
• The STAR Method: Structure your answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to showcase your skills and achievements effectively.
• Highlight Your Value Proposition: Tailor your answers to demonstrate how your skills align with the company’s needs and goals.
• Ask Thoughtful Questions: Prepare questions that show genuine interest in the role and the company.

You’ve made it through the in-person interview! This is your chance to build a strong rapport with the interviewer and showcase your personality.

After the Interview

• Send a Thank You Email: Express gratitude for the interviewer’s time and reiterate your interest in the position. Or, if you’ve applied through recruitment agency, request that your recruiter forwards on your email.
• Follow Up: If appropriate, send a gentle follow-up email after a few days to inquire about the next steps. Your recruiter will happily follow up for you if you’ve applied through an agency.

Following up after the interview demonstrates your continued interest in the position and can help you stay top of mind.

Offer Stage

• Negotiation: Be prepared to discuss salary, benefits, and start date.
• Contract Review: Carefully review the contract before signing.
• Onboarding Preparation: Research the company further and prepare for your first day.

Congratulations on receiving a job offer! This is an exciting time, but it’s important to negotiate terms and carefully review the contract.

Common Behavioural and Scenario-Based Questions

• Tell me about a time you failed.
• Describe a situation where you disagreed with a supervisor.
• How do you handle a stressful situation?
• Give an example of a time you had to deal with a difficult customer.
• Describe a time when you went above and beyond for a customer/client.
• Tell me about a time you had to work on a team project where someone wasn’t pulling their weight.
• Imagine you’re given a project with an unrealistic deadline. How would you handle it?
• How would you handle a situation where a colleague was consistently late for work?
• You’re working on a project and a key team member suddenly quits. How would you handle the situation?
• Describe a time when you had to make a quick decision under pressure.

Practice answering these types of questions to improve your interview performance.

Remember, every interview is a learning experience. By applying these techniques and continuously refining your approach, you’ll increase your chances of landing the job you deserve.

GOOD LUCK!