How to be successful in an interview

So you bagged an interview and now you’re wondering exactly what it takes to be successful and land a new role? Well, don’t panic – you’ve come to the right place, my friend. Interviews are a competitive and nerve-wracking experience, but the good news is that you’re already waaay ahead of the competition simply by showing up to read this article today.

Read on to check out our top tips for interview success.

• Practise interview questions
• Prepare questions for the interviewer
• Don’t go empty-handed
• Be punctual
• Dress smartly
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills
• Be authentically you
• Follow up

How do you pass a job interview successfully?

1. Practise interview questions

One of the most beneficial things you can do in preparation for your big day is to practise! Make a list of some of the most common interview questions and map out your answers. When you start out, it won’t be perfect. It may even be messy – but this is all part of the preparation process!

2. Prepare questions for the interviewer

Employers love when candidates ask intelligent questions. It shows you’ve done your research and you’re genuinely interested in working for the company. Be sure to ask questions about the role itself, the training, and the company culture and mission. Try to steer clear of asking more tedious questions about lunch breaks and annual leave…you can address these later down the line.

Example questions to ask employers in an interview:

• What do you like about working here?
• What is the company culture like?
• Tell me more about what the training entails.
• What are the company’s plans for growth over the next 5 years?
• What opportunities are there for progression further down the line?

3. Don’t go empty-handed

Make sure you prepare your bag the night before your interview. Is there anything specific they’ve asked you to bring? We’d suggest taking a copy of your CV, a notepad, a pen, your identification, relevant certificates and any samples of your work.

If you’re still unsure of what to take in, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive list of what to bring to an interview.

4. Be punctual

Arriving late is the biggest faux-pas to an interview. This could really hinder your chances of success. In the days before your interview, find out exactly where the location is and how you’ll get there. Arrive 15 minutes early (but not earlier) so you can use the restroom and complete any forms.

5. Dress smartly

First impressions count so put your best foot forward by dressing the part. Make sure your hair is neat, you’re dressed formally, and all your clothes are clean and ironed. 

6. Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills

Employers don’t just hire people based on your experience alone. They also make hires based on how well they think you’ll fit in with the company and get along with others. Once you’re in the interview room, it’s time to demonstrate your interpersonal skills and build rapport. Aim to elevate the atmosphere in the room with your personality by using open and engaging body language, talking with your hands, smiling, and varying the intonation of your voice.

7. Be authentically you

The most important part of the interview is to make sure you stay true to yourself. Avoid saying answers you THINK the interviewer wants to hear. If you don’t know the answer to a question or it’s an area you’re lacking experience in, employers will respect you so much more for being honest about that.

8. Follow up

Always follow up your interviews within 24 hours with an email to thank the hiring manager for their time and to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. This will set you apart from the competition and leave a lasting impression. If you don’t hear back after a week, don’t be shy to give the interviewer a call to check up on the progress.

Ready to shine?

It’s perfectly normal to feel nervous, but you’ll be surprised by how much these steps will boost your confidence. Just remember to start prepping in advance and to be yourself!

If you’re hungry for more tips, check out more of our interview secrets.