Acing your interview

It may sound simple, but this is often the most overlooked aspect of interviews. Do as much research as you can – consult the company website, the manager’s LinkedIn page, and do some Googling. Your interviewer doesn’t need to have every tiny detail of their company’s history recited back to them, but showing you’ve done your research will demonstrate care and curiosity about the role.

Match up the duties of the role and experience the interviewer is looking for to the experience you already have. Think about what kind of questions may be asked and spend some time practicing your answers beforehand.

If your interview is on Teams, Zoom, Hangouts, etc., then check your computer is set up properly, the sound is working, and your cat isn’t going to stroll across your desk five minutes in. In face-to-face interviews, research how long it’ll take to get you there and what to bring with you.

If you’re asked to provide an example of a certain scenario, then try to use an example from a recent and similar role. You want the manager to be able to relate to how that will be advantageous to them and the role you would be doing. This is less likely to happen if your example is a role from a decade ago in a very different environment.

People who aren’t will get caught out. It may not be right away, but eventually the truth will emerge. If your interviewer asks about experience that you don’t have, don’t pretend that you do, but instead try and provide an example of similar experience or skills that you think would be transferrable.

This is a great opportunity to sell your strengths back to the interviewer. The questions they ask you will be like what they’ve asked the other candidates, but you can differentiate yourself from the competition by asking really strong, researched questions. Questions can be about the role but also the business in general – growth opportunities, career development, etc. This demonstrates genuine interest in the job and will leave a great impression on the hiring manager.

It’s easy to say “just be yourself” but people really do buy from people, and if you are in competition with other candidates, it can come down to how well the manager will think you’ll fit within the team. It’s just as meaningful for you to come away from the interview thinking “will I enjoy working with them?”

Think before you start to talk – form your answer in your mind and you will come across clearer and more concise. Have a glass of water and take a sip if you need to buy yourself an extra second of thinking time, and your hiring manager will also be impressed by your dedication to regular hydration.