Interview Preparation

The first step to interview preparation is thorough research of the employer and the job.

The Employer

• understand the history of the company and its vision, goals and values
• learn about the services or products produced by the company
• find out details of any new projects 
• find out the names and positions of the people you will work with if appointed to the job

The Job

• what is the purpose of the job and how does it help achieve the organisation vision and goals?
• what are the key requirements in terms of qualifications and skills?
• do your own qualifications and skills align favourably with the job requirements?
• what are the major duties and responsibilities of the job?

Practice Common Questions: 

• Prepare concise and compelling answers to typical interview questions. 

Prepare Questions to Ask

• Formulate thoughtful questions about the role, team, and company. 

Plan Your Outfit and Logistics: 

• Ensure you have appropriate attire and arrive early for the interview. 

By understanding the purpose of a job interview and taking the time to prepare effectively, candidates can increase their chances of making a positive impression and securing the job

Establish the format of the interview and how it will be conducted. 

• telephone
• teams, zoom
• customised interview platform
• assessment platform
• in person interview
• assessment or presentation
• pre-recorded interview

Interview Technologies

Familiarise yourself with the relevant technology by practising interviews with friends, family or recruiters. Ensure that you have:

• good mobile connection and sufficient battery life
• good internet connection
• adequate lighting
• a professional background
• a good microphone and camera

Employers look for three essential criteria to evaluate a candidate's suitability for a job:

1. competency to do the job well (qualifications, skills, experience)
2. motivation to perform
3. team working ability (personality which will be a good cultural fit)

Employer Questions

Questions will be directed at clarifying the three criteria above focusing on the candidate's current and past work performance, motivation for moving to a new role and ability to work within and possibly lead a team. 

Candidate Responses

Candidates should aim to answer the interviewers questions thoroughly and demonstrate conculsively their ability to successfully do the job, work effectively with a team and convey their motivations for taking up the job.

Candidates should also prepare at least 3 questions for the interview panel about the job or company.

Dress

Dress is just as important for virtual interviews as live ones and candidates should always aim for a professional appearance.

• select an outfit in advance and ensure it is clean and pressed. 
• for virtual interviews, consider the background and impact of colour.
• avoid excessive make up and accessories
• ensure hair is clean and brushed

Travel

• find out the address of the interview and plan travel in advance making allowances for delays

If you are not familiar with the route, consider making a practice run

set alarms and plan to leave in plenty of time to allow for traffic/delays

• Print out a spare copy of your CV to take with you
• Prepare a copy of your qualifications and/or examples of your work (if necessary)
• Make sure you are able to give references upon request

Post-Interview:

Follow up with a thank-you note to reiterate your interest and highlight key points discussed.