It’s been found that within seven seconds people form an opinion on you – and this is the same for an interview.
Yes, you read that right, seven seconds.
An interviewer will have an opinion on you, and you’ll have an opinion on them almost instantly.
Realistically, what can be said or done in this short space of time? It’s important you make this initial introduction count. At develop, we understand the pressure that individuals face when going for an interview. They have the potential to change your life, and the pressure that’s felt can be huge.
We’ve put together a list of interview do’s and don’ts to help you prepare for your next interview.
Our top four tips to help you:
1. Prepare, prepare, prepare
There is no such thing as being over-prepared for an interview. Ahead of your interview make sure you’ve done your research into the company, the role you’ve applied for, and re-read the job description.
If you’re not asked the direct question, ‘what do you know about the company?’, try to demonstrate what you know about the company on your own by tying it into other answers.
2. Arrive early
Whether your interview is in person, or online it’s important to be early and ready.
If your interview is in-person use this time to assess your surroundings, the workspace, the environment, and the culture.
If you’re waiting for a video call to start, have all the technology ready in advance, and if you have time, test your tech ahead of time to make sure everything is working properly. When you’re set-up, take any time you have spare to mentally prepare. Getting into an interview mindset can be hard if you’re interviewing from your home, so use your waiting time to mentally shift into interview mode.
3. Clearly communicate
The time you have with your interviewer is limited, so make sure your communication is clear and concise.
Try to ensure you’re listening to the questions and answering what you’ve actually been asked – it can be easy to overthink what you’ve just said or what you may be asked next. Be present and listen carefully.
4. Be authentic
It’s easy to have an interview alter ego, we’ve all had one. But whether your interview is in person, or online it’s important you show your true self for both yourself and the interviewer – you’ll both be able to see whether you’ll be a good cultural fit, as well as showcasing personal attributes that are your strengths.
What to avoid in an interview:
1. Being unprepared
Often, an interview is scheduled with plenty of time to prepare. On paper, you may be the most qualified person for the role, but if you fail to research a company it will become clear to the interviewer and could impact whether you’re invited for a second interview. Researching a company only benefits you, and your interview success.
2. Talking negatively
It may be easy when asked, ‘why are you looking for a new role?’ to criticise your current company or colleagues but avoid this if possible. Every employment you go through is a learning experience, so try to draw on the positive outcomes, and not the negative experience directly.
3. Not asking questions
Interviewers want to know your interest level in the role and the company. Preparing questions ahead of time to ask in your interview will only help you – the interviewer will know you’re engaged, and you’ll find out more about the company. Remember, your time with the interviewer is limited so asking questions ensures you get the most out of them, just like they do with you.
4. Not showing up
It’s becoming more common for people to not show up for interviews, who knew ghosting wasn’t just for dating? But if you no longer want to interview at a company, or if you can no longer make the proposed time – make sure you contact your Recruiter or interviewer ahead of time.
At the time you probably aren’t thinking about the future – but if you were to apply at that company in a few years’ time, they’ve probably noted that you were a no-show, and this can harm any chance of being considered.
The interview is over, now what? Every company interviews differently, so try to not compare one interview process to another. We know it’s easy to over analyse what happened during an interview, but remember, regardless of the result, there’s always something that you can learn from your experience so focus on the positives.
Remember these tips to help you next time you have an interview, and if you want more advice and guidance, send us a message. One of our specialist Consultants can help you with your job search.