How to prepare for your job interview

As part of our help and advice series on job interviews, we’ve talked about how to get a job interview, now let’s talk about how to prepare for one.

Some expert advice from our People and Culture team, who handle our recruitment: Practice, practice, practice.

1. Practice your job interview skills

Write down some questions that you think the employer will ask. For example, where do you see yourself in five years? What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Prepare for behavioural-based questioning such as: Give me an example from a previous role where you were challenged, and you were able to problem solve in order to overcome this challenge?

You don’t want to be caught off guard, so write down all your answers too. Sit down with a friend or family member and practice with them. You will feel more comfortable and prepared for any curve balls thrown at you during the interview.

Ensure you know who you are meeting with and what to bring on the day. For example, your resume, folio or presentation.

2. Research the company you’re interviewing for

There is no such thing as too much research. The little things do count, like where to park on the day to going on the organisation’s website and reviewing their history and values. This will shine through to the employer that you are thorough and that you care about the business and role.

3. Organise what to wear to your job interview

First impressions count. Research what employees at the organisation are wearing and aim to mirror that.

It will give the employer the impression that you see presentation as being important and that you are aligned to what the business is trying to look like. For example, if they wear corporate attire, be sure to do the same. Presentation has power and it’s crucial to look the part.