Nervous for an interview? Or just want to know how best to prepare for one?

Read our top tips for acing interviews, including how to best prepare and make the best first impression with your potential employer.

Preparing for your interview

Preparing Your Interview Image

Doing your research before an interview is extremely important, and could impact on your interview success. Read some of our tips below to best prepare for yours.

  • DO NOT leave your interview research until the last minute – The last thing you want to be doing is to rush your research into the role and the company on interview day.
  • Research the company – It is likely that your potential employer has a long list of candidates on interview, and thus it is important to stand out. This means understanding more than the basics of the company. What challenges does the company face? Who are its main competitors? What is the company’s USP?
  • Research the job role – Read over the job description, and read over your CV again to ensure you can answer any questions relating to how your skills and qualifications match the job you applied for.
  • Questions – Come prepared with a list of questions to ask the employer at the end of the interview, and be prepared for the questions they may ask you during the interview.
  • Plan how you are getting to the interview – Punctuality at an interview is important. Try and plan your route, leaving plenty of time to get there (particularly if you plan on using public transport) with the aim to get there 10-15 minutes earlier than your scheduled interview time.

Attending the interview

  • What to take to an interview:
    • Pen and notebook
    • Your CV – Your interview may already have your CV printed out, but bringing your CV with you can show organization
    • A bottle of water
    • Any other important documents that your employer requests
  • Make a good first impression – Ensure you know the dress code for the interview (If you are unsure, email the contact at the company to clarify). Display good manners and body language and be as confident as possible.
  • During the interview, use the STAR method when answering questions
    • Situation – Describe the event or situation
    • Task – Explain the task you had to complete
    • Action – Describe how you completed the task at hand
    • Result – Explain the results of your actions
  • Ask questions after the interview
  • And most importantly, relax and be yourself!
Attending The Interview Image