Improve your interview skills in 2019

You’ve a great track record, you know you’re capable of doing the job on offer, but first you must get through the interview . . . and that’s where you’re scared you will stumble.

Don’t worry. You’re not alone. Even the most experienced professionals get butterflies at the thought of facing an interview panel.

Do the prep work

No one begins an electrical installation, finance audit or operation without first doing all of the necessary preparation.

Similarly, before an interview find out everything you can about the place you’ll be working – from its receptionists to its CEO.

Fit the profile

Read the job description on jobs24.com carefully and go over your application form and CV again. How well do your skills match what’s required?

If there are gaps, don’t be disheartened. No one interviewee will fit the profile perfectly but it’s how you deal with the distance between what you have and what they want that matters.

Look the part

You may soon be in your uniform or scrubs most of the time, but at the interview you’ll be expected to project an image of professionalism. This means looking smart yet low-key.

You should feel comfortable not strait-laced and starched-up in your Sunday best.

Observe, listen, and speak

When faced with a difficult problem in the workplace you’d never rush to find an answer. The same goes here. Look at the body language of your interviewers, listen carefully to what you’re being asked and only then answer clearly.

Don’t be afraid of asking to have a question repeated if you’re not sure of the meaning.

Keep something up your sleeve

And not just a clean handkerchief. Rehearse scenarios where you’ve found a solution or demonstrated leadership that made your workplace run more smoothly.

Be early, be cool, be confident

Plan how you’ll get to your interview, give yourself plenty of time for the journey, check you know exactly where the interview room is situated then turn up early, sit in a coffee shop around the corner and go over your notes again. This way you’ll be in great shape and ready to impress.

For all the latest vacancies visit jobs24.com

Posted on December 19, 2018