Follow these eight steps and be better positioned to land the job.
The company
Make sure you’ve thoroughly researched its key individuals, history, vision, competitors and lingo. Use the company’s website, LinkedIn page and job advertisement, and then Google for further research.
The job description
Specifically, familiarise yourself with its key words and implant these at the front of your mind. Also, identify its tone. When preparing answers to possible interview questions you’ll need to replicate this.
The CV
Make connections between your skills, experiences and achievements and the key selection criteria noted in the job advertisement. Determine what makes you unique (or as they say in corporate circles, your “unique selling proposition” or USP).
Tip: Businesses want to see that you are results driven. If possible, find a statistic that highlights a major accomplishment.
Determine what sort of questions you will be asked and then prepare applicable answers, taking the above into account. We suggest writing them down, as visualising them will help with memory recall.
Re-read the questions and answers again and again, and then practise aloud without looking at your answers. You may want to record yourself talking, or even better, ask a friend, housemate or family member to do a mock interview with you.
Remember, they will be awaiting questions from you as well. Just don’t ask anything that can be easily answered with research on the company website or Google.
More information: Five Questions To Ask In A Job Interview (and Why)
It may sound a little a silly, but this can help. Write down five reasons why you are perfect for the job and read them aloud. Then repeat them multiple times leading up the interview. This exercise should ease the nerves and put you in a positive frame of mind.
If in doubt, remember you have successfully reached the interview stage, so you are already viewed in high regard. It’s now time to shine!
Dressing well for the interview doesn’t just mean wearing something appropriate, it’s also about feeling confident. Empower yourself and wear something you love, like your favourite jacket, new shoes or those lucky socks you reserve for special occasions.
More information: What To Wear For a Job Interview (Ladies), What To Wear For a Job Interview (Men)
Do your best to remove any distractions on the day of the interview. You may like to plan your outfit the night before, go for an early walk to clear the mind or catch an Uber or taxi to the interview (if your budget permits) so you don’t get stressed in traffic or public transport.
Tip: Use the journey time to re-read your interview notes and to repeat your mantra in your mind.
Look to get there at least five minutes early. Then when you arrive, breathe normally, smile, and present yourself with quiet confidence.
