Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Job Interview
Posted by Steve Thomas , Construction Recruitment Director, UK & Canada on Tuesday, April 18, 2023
If you’ve been invited to a job interview, it means that the employer has already seen something in your CV or application form that they wanted to explore further. This is an exciting opportunity for you - but how can you make sure that it pays off? Preparing for interviews is always important and this article will offer you 10 tips to ensure that your job interview goes as smoothly as possible, giving you the best chance of being offered a position with the company.
Research the Company
The first tip is to research the company thoroughly. Familiarise yourself with their history, values, size, specialisms, locations etc. This will show that you are interested in the company, and it will also allow you to tailor your responses to questions to show you have done your research.
Prepare Answers
Prepare answers to the most common interview questions such as, "Tell me about yourself" and "What are your strengths and weaknesses." These can be the hardest questions to answer on the hoof so have something ready so that you can have clear and concise answers.
Practice Your Responses
After preparing your answers, practice them in front of a mirror or with a friend in a role play. By practicing your responses, you can refine them and deliver them smoothly during the interview.
Dress Professionally
Make sure that you dress professionally for your job interview. Regardless of the company dress code, you should always dress appropriately for the interview. This will show that you take the interview seriously and that you respect the company. If in doubt, ask your Recruitment Consultant for advice.
Plan Ahead
Plan ahead by working out your route to the interview location (if face to face), allowing for extra time in case of any unexpected delays. Arriving early for the interview will show that you are punctual and reliable. If it is a virtual interview, check your Teams / Zoom app is up to date and that your audio and video is definitely working!
Bring Along Copies of Your CV
Take multiple copies of your CV to the interview, in case the interviewer/s don’t have copies to hand. This will show that you are prepared and organised!
Showcase Your Skills
During the interview, make sure to showcase your skills and experience. Talk about your previous work experience and how it has prepared you for the position. Take examples of successful projects you have completed in your previous jobs.
Ask Questions
Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the company, the position, and the expectations of the role. Asking questions shows your interest in the position and company, and it provides you with additional information to decide if it's the right fit for you.
Stay Calm
Try to stay calm and composed during the interview. Take a few deep breaths before entering the interview and focus on answering the questions to the best of your ability. Talk slowly and don’t be scared to take a brief pause before you answer a question. If you don’t know the answer to a question, explain or discuss your method of approaching a problem and how you would work towards finding out the answer.
Follow Up
After the interview, follow up with your Recruitment Consultant and Interviewer as it also gives you the opportunity to reinforce your interest in the position and shows that you appreciate their time and efforts. Showing interest is always a positive!
Conclusion
Preparing for a job interview can be quite a task if done to a very high standard. However, by following these 10 essential tips, you can be confident that you will have the opportunity to do your best! What’s for you will not go past you! Good luck!
Steve is responsible for Maxim Recruitment in the UK. He is based in the Maxim head office in Leicester, Leicestershire and regularly travels to meet employers, job seekers and to attend construction industry networking events all over the UK. With over 20 years' experience in construction and property recruitment he works with a number of repeat clients and engages in search and headhunting assignments for a range of premium UK and international clients.