CAREER PORTAL

CAREER PORTAL

Interview Preparation Tips

Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation, you can impress potential employers and secure your dream job.

At Stuart Hall Consulting, we’ve put together some expert tips to help you succeed in both in-person and virtual interviews.

General Interview Preparation Tips

1. Research The Company

  • Understand their mission, values, and recent projects.
  • Familiarise yourself with the role and how it fits into the company’s goals.

2. Know Your CV Inside Out

  • Be prepared to discuss your skills, experiences, and achievements in detail.
  • Practice explaining how your background aligns with the job requirements.

3. Prepare Common Questions

  • Think about answers to common questions like:
    • “Tell me about yourself.”
    • “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
    • “Why do you want to work here?”
  • Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.

4. Prepare Questions For The Interviewer

  • Ask thoughtful questions to show genuine interest, such as:
    • “What does success look like in this role?”
    • “What are the team’s biggest challenges right now?”

5. Practice And Rehearse

  • Conduct mock interviews with a friend or recruiter.
  • Record yourself answering questions to refine your responses and delivery.

Tips For In-Person Interviews

1. Plan Your Route

  • Arrive 10-15 minutes early.
  • Research the location in advance and plan for traffic or delays.

2. Dress Appropriately

  • Wear professional attire that matches the company’s culture. When in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed.

3. Bring Essentials

  • Carry multiple copies of your CV, a notebook, a pen, and any documents the employer requested.

4. Master Body Language

  • Greet the interviewer with a firm handshake and maintain good eye contact.
  • Sit upright and avoid fidgeting to convey confidence and professionalism.

5. Show Enthusiasm

  • Smile, listen actively, and show genuine interest in the role and company.

Tips For Virtual Interviews

1. Test Your Technology

  • Ensure your internet connection is stable and your device is fully charged.
  • Test your webcam, microphone, and the interview platform (e.g., Zoom, Teams) in advance.

2. Choose a Professional Setting

  • Select a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral background.
  • Avoid distractions and ensure the area is tidy.

3. Dress Professionally

  • Dress as you would for an in-person interview to create a professional impression.

4. Maintain Eye Contact

  • Look at the webcam, not the screen, to simulate direct eye contact.
  • Nod and smile to show engagement.

5. Minimise Distractions

  • Turn off notifications on your devices.
  • Inform others in your household to avoid interruptions.

6. Have Materials Ready

  • Keep your CV, notes, and any other relevant documents nearby for quick reference.

7. Practice Virtual Etiquette

  • Mute yourself when not speaking to avoid background noise.
  • Speak clearly and use hand gestures sparingly.

After The Interview: Follow-Up

1. Send a Thank-You Email

  • Express gratitude for the opportunity and briefly reiterate your enthusiasm for the role.

2. Reflect On Your Performance

  • Review what went well and areas you can improve on for future interviews.

3. Stay Connected

  • Follow  up if you haven’t heard back within the employer’s specified timeframe.