10 interview tips to help you impress & stay authentic.
Interviews are an art, not a science. It’s all about winning over someone’s heart and mind. The following 10 tips may help.
1. Know your story.
Being asked to talk through your career is the most common question, but one that may not come naturally. It’s not every day we’re asked to speak out loud about our job, so it’s worth getting it right in your head. The interviewer wants a calm, clear and logical rundown of your career, key skills that are relevant to the role at hand & not a 20 minute dialogue.
Get a clear sense of:
- what you’re good at
- what you enjoy
- what you’ve actually achieved
- why this role makes sense
If you can explain your own career in a way that sounds human, you’re already winning.
2. Be natural, not robotic.
As obvious as this may sound, be the very best version of yourself, as there’s no point being a square peg in a round hole. Fit is a huge risk factor for employers, and they’re after people who are willing, manageable and good to be around. Show this, and you won’t go far wrong.
Remember, skills get you in the door – behaviour is what people live with every day. You’ll also work better in a place where you fit and belong.
3. You don’t have to be perfect.
Nobody likes a smarty pants, so if you don’t know something, be honest. However, do show how you’ve picked up things in the past and overcome obstacles. See the first interview like a conversation rather than an exam.
Candidates who listen properly and show they’re genuinely trying to understand the role always impress. By being genuine, interviewers will relax, the pressure drops, and it makes things way easier.
4. Employers don’t want to make a mistake.
The pressure is on them as much as it is on you. Hiring is time-consuming & stressful, and the more you show that you’re in tune with what they want and eager to give it your best, and show you actually want the job, you’ll be fine.
Enthusiasm is hugely reassuring as people trust someone who’s genuinely invested, not just browsing. Nothing reassures an interviewer more than hearing you know their market and what can be done in a role that makes things better.
5. Nerves kick in if you don’t do your prep.
It’s the most obvious thing. Preparation reduces stress, helps you feel calm, collected, and ready to answer questions clearly. Researching the company & role, in detail, shows genuine interest and gets you off to the best possible start. Without it, it will be an uphill battle and make sure you go a bit further than just a quick peek at their website.
6. Bring real examples.
Interviewers love specifics. “When X went wrong, here’s how I sorted it” is memorable and believable. Also, talking through your career is what most people haven’t actually practised, explaining their own career out loud.
7. Match their energy.
If they’re formal, you dial it up. If they’re relaxed, breathe. It’s just about getting on with someone.
People hire people they can picture working with – mirroring (lightly!) helps.
8. Ask questions that show you’re thinking ahead.
Good questions make you look smart. Ask about priorities, current challenges, and what success looks like in 6 months. Maybe avoid asking “what’s the salary again?” in the first 5 minutes.
9. Don’t be afraid to show personality.
They already know you can do the job (or you wouldn’t be there). Now they want to know the real you so let your true character shine.
10. Leave them with a clear intent of your interest.
Wrap up with something like: This role excites me because X, and I think I can add value by Y. You’d be amazed at how many people don’t let on how interested they are.