Interview preparation

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  2. Careers
  3. Applying for a job
  4. Interview preparation

Impress prospective employers

Interview preparation helps alleviate any stress you may experience before or during the interview process, and enables you to impress prospective employers at the interview.

Interview purpose

The end goal of any interview is to win the job.

However, interviews also serve two other important purposes:

  1. They allow employers to learn about your personality, skills, potential and whether you will fit into their organisation's culture.
  2. They allow you to find out more about the organisation and the role, and whether the organisation is the right fit for you.

Types of interview

Interviews can take many forms. Generally a recruitment process uses more than one interview style:

  • Phone screen
  • Assessment centres/ group interviews/ panel interviews
  • Face-to-face/ online
  • Case studies or tasks

Research and preparation are the keys to doing well in interviews.

  • Know the company well
  • Know the division that the position sits in and what they do
  • Ask for a copy of the job description so that you can highlight how your skills match the requirements
  • Ensure you read over the advert you applied to as it will help you present as the best match
  • You should also take a screenshot or save a copy to refer back to after the application closing date

Tip: LinkedIn is a great tool to research the company and the people that work there.

Finally, create a lasting impression. Asking great questions of the employer will highlight your interest and keenness to get the job.