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Interviews can be daunting, and anyone who has faced one knows the anxiety that comes with it. From making a great first impression to answering tricky questions on the spot, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But with the right preparation and mindset, you can not only survive an interview but truly excel. Here’s how to approach your next interview with confidence, authenticity, and the strategies that will help you stand out from the crowd.
Know the Interview Format and the Company: Understanding the interview format and the company’s culture is your 1st step to success. Whether it’s a behavioral interview or a technical one, being familiar with the structure helps tailor your preparation and responses accordingly. Research the company thoroughly, from its mission to its market position, and align your answers with what they value most.
Prepare Your STAR Stories: The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is your best friend for competency-based questions. Craft and rehearse stories that highlight your relevant experiences and achievements. This structured approach not only keeps you focused but also demonstrates your problem-solving skills and accomplishments clearly. Pro Tip: One rule here (ok, 2): practice as much as you can, be ready to illustrate any given question with an example drawn from your own experience
Be Authentic and True to Yourself: Authenticity is key. Staying true to your personality and values will make you more relatable and memorable. Employers appreciate genuine candidates who are confident in their abilities and honest about their experiences. Pro tip: Keep in mind you cannot get on well with everyone! Some personalities won't match and that's fine. If your inner self is sending you mixed signals about the person you'd have to report (should you accept the role), listen to it!
Know Your Resume Inside Out: Your resume is the roadmap of your professional journey, and you should know every turn by heart. Be ready to discuss any experience, skill, or achievement listed. Confidence in your knowledge not only shows preparedness but also ensures you can navigate unexpected questions.
First Impressions Matter: Arriving early, dressing appropriately, and presenting yourself professionally all contribute to a strong first impression. Aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early, and when in doubt, dress slightly more formally than required. Small details, like a polished appearance and punctuality, can make a big difference. Pro tip: Ask your friends/network how to properly dress, you'd be amazed how dress codes differ from one industry to another!
Don’t Oversell It!: Confidence is essential, that's true. But avoid coming across as boastful or insincere. Overselling your skills or exaggerating your experience can raise red flags for interviewers. Focus on presenting your strengths honestly and let your qualifications speak for themselves Pro tip: Showcasing how amazing you are might still do the trick with some interviewers, but candour will definitely makes you stand out. On the contrary having the humility to disclose why such project/experience was a failure, and most importantly what you have learnt from it is way more powerful that someone trying to sell consistence and perfection throughout a 10-20 year long career. Remember we are humans, not robots!
Ask Insightful Questions: When it’s your turn to ask questions, go beyond the basics. Inquire about the team dynamics, company goals, or challenges facing the department. Insightful questions demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and your forward-thinking approach. Pro tip: Keep in mind an interview is a 2-way street. Ask all the questions and make sure you haven't left any stone unturned before accepting or declining a role.
Stay Calm and Collected: Being nervous is natural, but managing it effectively is crucial. Practice deep breathing or mindfulness techniques before the interview to stay grounded. Pro tip: You don't need to address all questions straight away! Some behavioural questions aim at catching the interviewee off-guard and will require you to structure your answer first. Don't panic, take a moment to collect your thoughts and then deliver your answer. Like a pro!
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Whether you need more personalised advice, help refining your strategy, or just want to ensure you're fully prepared, don't hesitate to reach out. Let’s work together to turn your next interview into a success story. Contact me today, and let’s get started!
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