How to Make a Good Impression at an Interview

First Impressions
In one study, more than 30% of hiring managers decided whether to hire a candidate during the first five minutes of a job interview.

So how do you make a good impression?

Research:
Do your research! Before your interview carefully read over the vacancy job description to gain as much information as you can about the prospective role. Look through the employer’s website and scroll through their social media to gather as much information as you can about their culture, work ethic, and overall setup.

Gather as much information as you can about your employer. Doing research can make you feel more prepared and confident going into an interview.

Attire:
It’s important to show the recruiter that you made an effort for the interview.

Job interview dress codes vary but generally, a job interview calls for you to dress up a little. Dress codes can depend greatly on the company, industry, and location, so do your research!

Get your clothes ready the night before and check if they fit correctly. Make sure you feel confident and comfortable. Consider the role you have applied for and dress for the job you want!

Body language:
Body language speaks loudly in job interviews.

Body language is the way you non-verbally communicate your feelings with your posture, gestures, facial expressions, and movements. Body language is subconscious, but you can learn to control it and project confidence to those around you.

Consider the following:

• Make Eye Contact - Eye contact shows you are paying attention to your interviewer and points out your engagement with the situation.
• Sit Up Straight - Sitting up straight gives an automatic signal of confidence.
• Use Hand Gestures - Touching your fingertips, clasping palms, and moving your fingers are signs of honesty and openness. 
• Be Responsive –Smile and nod. Smiling displays positivity and shows that you are comfortable. Nodding shows that you are engaged and understand what the employer is saying.

Interview Questions:
How you answer interview questions will be a key factor in an employer’s final decision. Practice answering mock interview questions and ask a family member or a friend to listen and give you feedback. Take your time answering questions, calmly and slowly. Be authentic and enthusiastic!

Basic Interview Questions:

• Tell me about yourself
• Why should we hire you?
• What are your greatest strengths?
• What are your goals?
• Can you give an example of a time when you had to cope with a difficult situation?

Questions for the Recruiter:
Asking the employer some questions will show you are taking an interest in the company/business. Utilise the interview to gain useful insights into whether the job is right for you.

Example questions to ask the employer:

• Can you explain some of the day-to-day responsibilities for this job?
• Can you show me examples of projects I’d be working on?
• What does a typical day look like?
• Can you tell me more about the team I would be working in?
• Are there opportunities for training and progression within the role/company?

Video Interviews:
Many job interviews are being conducted online because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Being interviewed in your home environment may make you feel more comfortable but that doesn’t mean you should be any less prepared.

Tips For Online Interviews:

• Check Your Tech – Check your gear and video service provider the night before to make sure everything is working correctly.
• Have A Nice Background – Try to make your background look neat and tidy or consider finding a plain wall to sit in front of to stop any unwanted distractions.
• Be Well Lit – Make sure your lighting is good enough to allow the recruiter to see you clearly.
• Be Prepared for Technical Issues – Be ready for the inevitable technical hiccup. Employers should be used to this by now too, so don’t worry!