It’s nothing new that navigating the interview maze in this day and age can be confusing, if not disorientating. With company functions and trends constantly adapting to the new wave of professional ideals, it can be tough to keep up with expectations, protocols and processes.
That being said, there are several things you can and should always pre-empt before any formal meeting, so, when you are at the starting line and the gun goes off, you can execute your race to maximum effect.
Let’s go through some of these key elements.
But, just before we do, remember this… If a company has requested an interview with you:
1. Great job! They like you and your experience, relax!! The person you will be talking to on the other side of the table is human too and is probably just as anxious about the interview as you are.
2. The company wants to invest time in you, you should respect this and invest equal time and effort in them.
3. Trust in your principles but also be open minded to what your potential company can introduce to you and your development.
Company Research
This probably sounds obvious right? But you will be amazed at the number of individuals that turn up to interview without knowing who they are interviewing with.
Having a background knowledge of a company, is not just about ‘scanning’ a website for 30 minutes the night before. It is paramount that you know who you are going to see, what they do, how they operate.
Think of it as a homework assignment. You wouldn’t write a thesis without doing thorough research to back your hypothesis.
It’s 2018, there is an abundance of information and engagement presented on social media, news, press releases. Use it! Look under the bonnet! See how the nuts and bolts fit together to form the engine that propels the company forward.
Now … Just because you have become the Einstein of the company as a whole, doesn’t mean you should spill it all out and drown your interviewer as soon as they ask you. Instead, use this knowledge to understand the mindset and approach that the company are looking for and respond to questions from that angle.
Role Research
Similar to company research, but this time targeted on the players and the work.
You need to know all about the individuals who are, or have been, in the role or similar roles to the one you are going for.
Look at their skill sets/experience. How long did they stay in the position before leaving or being promoted? This information will help you gauge your own skill set – what you lack and what you bring in new – it will also help you comprehend what your opportunities of development and progression are going to be should you be successful.
In regards to the role itself, go through the job description carefully. Make notes, compare your experience/qualifications against it. If it addresses areas you have experience in, for example, a specific type of project. Write how you addressed and faced obstacles in a similar situation and how you could bring this experience to the job at hand.
Interview Research
Generally speaking, you will be informed of the interview structure before the first stage interview is set. But, if not, ask!!
How many stages will there be? Is it a one-on-one interview or a panel? Will there be tests? What kind of documentation or information will they require upon arrival?
If you are going through a recruiter, ask how other candidates found the process. Also ask if they will help you with preparation. They want you to succeed as much as you do, so get them to go the extra mile.
Interview the Interviewer
Smiling will only get you so far. Your interviewer wants to be asked questions too! And by questions, I don’t mean, ‘What is the coffee like in the cafeteria?’
Use the research you did previously on the company. Hone in on a specific topic relevant in the news. Discuss the future strategies the company wants to ensure to hit targets. What would their expectations for you be in the first quarter, probation period, year? This question is actually great! Because when they give you a response you can say how you would go about reaching and exceeding those expectations.
Ask your interviewer why they like the company and why they chose to work there.
Questions are a great way to get to know your interviewer. Remember, this person could potentially be your direct manager in the near future, so use this opportunity to build a relationship with them and understand how they like to operate.
Interview Appearance
As the saying goes… First impressions are lasting impressions! Not all of us can pull off Will Smith’s paint covered jeans interview in ‘The Pursuit of Happiness’.
Double check prior to the interview if it is formal business attire or smart casual.
Your personality is important but visible tattoos, excessive jewellery, revealing clothing, may be deemed inappropriate and not acceptable within the company culture. So be sure to adapt and respect these expectations.
The Interview
You look like a princess, you’ve arrived 15 minutes early, you know your interviewer is a keen athletics fan like you and you have prepared lots of questions.
Smile!! You are going to rock this!
Nerves are natural, so if you are shaking like a leaf beforehand don’t worry! It shows you care.
You can help calm those nerves by:
– Do some breathing exercises. Focus on the area of your body where you feel your breath the most and then focus on it. Count to 4 seconds on your in-breath and 4 on the out-breath. As you feel your heart rate lowering, increase the out-breath to 6 seconds and then (if comfortable) to 8 seconds. Even doing this exercise for just 5 minutes will help you focus and calm your mind.
– Go in to the bathroom and pull some funny faces in the mirror. Sounds silly I know, but it works! Pulling funny faces will immediately relax the muscles in your face and also decrease cortisol levels. You will laugh and your body will release endorphins.
Interviews are a two-way thing. They want to know all about you and you want to know all about them.
Listen carefully and answer questions honestly.
Your body language is very important! Try and mirror your interviewer, but don’t fixate on it. The more natural and comfortable you are the better!
Last Thoughts
At the end of your interview don’t be afraid to ask for feedback. Is there any more information they require at this stage and when you will receive formal feedback from the HR or your recruiter?
Finish confidently, thank them for their time and re-ensure your interest in the position – assuming of course that you still are.
If you would like some help or advice on new career opportunities and interview preparation feel free to contact me on the below email, or give me a call and we can have an informal discussion.
Thank you for taking your time to read this article. Have a super day!