A job interview can be a very stressful situation that you have to face in the process of finding new employment. It is important to be well-prepared for your interview in order to ensure that you perform well and take advantage of any opportunities to make a good impression.

1. Knowing the company is the key to success

Knowing the details of a company is the key to creating a good impression at a job interview. Before going to the interview, go online and check out the company’s website and social media so that you get a general impression of their areas of operation, products or services, target groups and also about the people in charge.  Familiarise yourself with the company’s latest news and any press releases, as well as any innovations in the market and or with their competitors. You should be aware of what topics or issues are currently the most important for the company.
If possible, obtain as much information about the decision-makers or the person heading the interview, as by knowing the person you will be speaking to gives you the opportunity to express mutual business interests and transform the interview into a conversation. Make sure you remember their names and titles.

2. Questions are an opportunity to speak about yourself

There are some frequently asked questions at interviews, for example: Why did you apply for this job position? What makes you the most suitable candidate? and so on. You can prepare for these questions beforehand so that you can answer with confidence and use them to your advantage. When answering, you can help yourself with cue cards that mention how your experience, skills and experience can benefit the employer. Focus on those aspects that are relevant to the job you are applying for. When giving answers you should also give concrete examples from your career path, demonstrating how you have successfully applied your skills and expertise to achieve results.
If you are not very skilled at public speaking, we advise that you practice giving answers in front of a mirror or with the help of a friend playing the role of the interviewer.

3. You have to know what you want

Before starting your interview, you should ask yourself what is really important for you and under what conditions are you willing to accept the new job. Besides that salary, it is important to consider other aspects and conditions that the job entails. When you are sure of what you want, it will be easier for you to negotiate the conditions with the employer or reject the offer if it does not meet your key conditions.

4. The first impression is crucial

On the day of the interview, be punctual and dress suitably for the occasion. Make sure your clothes fit you well and are comfortable to wear, both when you are sitting down as well as standing up.

Greet the people present with a genuine smile, make eye contact and give a firm handshake. When sitting, be relaxed and sit up straight, making sure that your posture, facial gesture and body language reflects self-confidence and readiness to talk.

Be prepared and bring a couple of copies of your CV, cue cards, a list of three business references that will give the employer positive feedback about you, and a pencil and note pad to make any notes.  Depending on the profession, you may also want to bring a portfolio showcasing your work and successful projects.

5. Be ready to take on the challenge

It is important for an employer to see that you are ready to take on the challenges that the new job position entails, and that you have the motivation and possibility to succeed.  Show your enthusiasm for the company’s successes and emphasise, using concrete examples, how you could contribute to achieving better results.

During the interview you can ask a few questions that you prepared in advance regarding key issues. Stick to topics that you did not address during the interview, but are important for the company. This will give your employer the feeling that you came well-prepared to the interview and that you understand his position.

6. Leave your options open

No matter the outcome of the interview, thank the employer for the opportunity and their time, and show that you are willing to continue talks and stay in contact. You never know when the next opportunity will arise with the same employer.