Interview Advice for Graduates
For many graduates, this could be the first time that they are going for an interview. Read and follow the tips below to ensure that you have the best chance of securing that first step on the career ladder.
1. Preparing for the interview
Start preparing a few days prior to the interview.
a. Do your research. Make sure that you read the company's website and other literature. Also, search the internet for current events and industry information that is relevant to the company you are applying to.
b. Practice. Most graduate interviews tend to be competency based. So make sure that you have prepared in advance good examples for when you have worked in a team, shown initiative, overcome obstacles, and so on. Preparing a selection of examples in advance means that you can give better answers in the interview rather than the first thing that pops into your head when under pressure. However, make sure that you do not try to learn these examples parrot-fashion, otherwise it will come across as too rehearsed.
c. Be prepared. Know where you're supposed to go. Check their Web site, and call in if you have to. Also, make sure that you know how long it will take you to get there so that you don't end up being late.
d. Know why you want the job. You will be asked why you want to work there: it's small, it's large, interesting job, best company in its field, the role fits in with your interests and experience.
2. Pre-Interview
On the day of your interview, prepare yourself.
a. Dress smartly and appropriately. Make sure that you wear appropriate attire for the company that you are interviewing with. If in doubt, then be on the conservative side and wear a suit and tie.
b. Arrive early. But not too early. Five to 10 minutes early is okay. If you're earlier, wait somewhere else first or in the reception. Then relax.
c. Be friendly. Greet the receptionist and anyone that talks to you before the interview. Thank them for any assistance.
d. Turn off your mobile. It will look unprofessional if your mobile starts ringing in the middle of the interview.
3. The Interview
The point of an interview is for the employer to find out more about your skills and your personality. Remember that they already have your resume and now they want to know about you.
● Interview Dos
a. Make a good first impression and maintain it. Mirroring is a powerful technique if used subtly, no matter the interviewer's mood.
b. Maintain eye contact. Look the interviewer in the eye without staring.
c. Nod your head and smile. It shows you are attentive and friendly.
d. Be concise. Stick to the point when answer each question and don't tell your whole life story. Give a bit of detail instead of just "yes" and "no".
e. Ask for clarification. If you don't understand something, politely ask for clarification rather than making a guess and then answering incorrectly.
f. Ask questions. Ask about the culture at the company, your role, the team and any general questions that the interviewer has not mentioned yet. Remember that an interview is a two way process; it is about both you and the recruiter figuring out if the 'fit' is right.
g. Be flexible. Even the best jobs have boring or repetitive tasks that must get done. Also, say that you are willing to learn if you don't know how to do something.
h. Ask about future opportunities. This shows that you're career-minded, and that you might stay long-term.
● Interview Don'ts
a. Don't ask about salary benefits first. Instead, let the interviewer bring it up. This is normally discussed towards the end, and usually if they're interested in you.
b. Don't fidget. It can make you come across as untrustworthy and can be a distraction to the interviewer.
c. Don't mumble. Speak clearly and enunciate your words. This should be part of your pre-interview practice with friends.
d. Don't be intimidated. Be confident without being arrogant.
e. Don't complain about your previous job. Be positive.
f. Don't look needy. Sure, you need a job, but if you act like it, you probably won't get it.
4. After the Interview
What you do after the interview is just as important to getting a job, as the interview itself.
a. As you're leaving, ask about the selection process and when you might hear back. If there's more than one position, you might hear back sooner.
b. Follow up on each interview. Call or email Human Resources Department or your interviewer, especially if you haven't heard back within two weeks.
