Interviews are both an exciting and nerve-wracking step in the application journey. To help navigate this step, this article will cover some key tips for interviews whether you are new in your career or an established professional.

This article will cover:

  • Interview tips
  • Common questions
  • Other useful links
Interview Tips

 

  1. Conduct Company and Interviewer Research

Examine the company’s website, social media channels, press releases and key projects to understand the company culture and objectives. Tailor your background to align with their company requirements.

  1. Review the Job Description

Examine and highlight key areas in the job description and write out your corresponding skills and experience. Demonstrate your proficiency in these areas.

  1. Practice Responses

Prepare answers to common questions [below] and utilize a friend or family member if possible, to practice these questions with you and provide feedback. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure responses to problem-solving questions.

  1. Prepare Questions

Demonstrate your interest in the role and company by asking questions about your role, team culture, performance expectations and key job details.

  1. Work Experience

Set aside 4/5 key work examples of projects, experiences or achievements that demonstrate your capabilities and can be applied to a variety of questions.

  1. Interview Attire

Examine the company you are applying for and dress accordingly to industry standard to make sure you make a good impression. For example, suitable clothes for a Financial Services firm and a Fashion Magazine will vary.

  1. Arrive Early

Arrive 10-15 minutes early for your interview to demonstrate promptness and to account for unexpected delays in your journey.

  1. Be Authentic

Express genuine enthusiasm and positivity during your conversations and engage with the interviewers on a human level. Refrain speaking negatively about previous employers or work experiences.

  1. Next Steps

Seek clarity on the next steps after the interview and timelines for receiving feedback. If you have received been rejected after an interview, ask for feedback as this could highlight key areas for improvement in following interviews with other employers and accelerate your success.

 

Common interview questions
  • What interests you about this job position?
  • Why do you want to work for this company?
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses?
  • How did you overcome a challenged faced at work?
  • How would you handle a stressful situation?
  • Describe a time you effectively demonstrated leadership skills.
  • What are your long-term career goals?
  • How do you manage your time and prioritization of tasks?
  • Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team. What did you learn from this experience?
  • How have you worked on improving your work based on previous feedback and criticism?
  • Please provide an example of a project / piece of work you have completed.
  • What are the current industry trends and developments you are most interested in?
  • How have you resolved conflict in a work environment?
  • Why would you be the best candidate for this role? What skills do you bring to the role?