An interview is your gateway to a new opportunity so it’s essential to get those interview skills toned up and really impress those potential employers.  Below are some pointers on how you can conduct the perfect interview. This includes face to face, video calls and telephone interviews.

Research the company

Really get to know your potential employer, not only the service they provide but about their work ethos – check out their website. Employers are impressed by someone who does their homework before coming to see them, and it shows them you are willing to put the work in.

Be on time

Lateness is a big bug bear for a lot of employers, so make sure you plan your route and allow lots of time to get to your interview. A practice run is always a good idea too. If it’s a video or telephone call, make sure you are available and ready at the specified time.

Make a good first impression

First impressions count, so what makes a good first impression? Easy really; dress to impress, smile, be confident and offer a firm handshake.  These are the things that can influence the overall decision to employ someone.

Be attentive and ask questions

Everyone likes to feel they are being listened to, so be attentive, answer any questions and demonstrate with examples of your own experience. Maintain good posture, maintain eye contact and keep a positive attitude throughout the interview. Be enthusiastic and have a prepared list of questions.

Be the best candidate

Demonstrate what you can bring to the table, offer ideas about how you would improve the role or processes you would implement. Show the employer how you’d be an asset to their business. If you go above and beyond, it can help seal the deal.

Video and telephone interviews

Choose a room with good lighting ideally near a window (Natural light is better), don’t aim the camera into the light as you will appear as this will silhouette you. Try and choose a room with a neutral background and make sure nothing embarrassing is in shot (pair of undies on the radiator doesn’t give the right first impression.

Do a test run before the call to make sure your equipment is working, check the camera and mic, and make sure you are comfortable with navigating whichever piece of software you are using.

Alert anyone else in the property that you are doing an interview. The last thing you want is someone to burst in to the room like this or this. This goes for telephone calls too, if you are interrupted it could throw you out of rhythm, and will look unprofessional. Along the same lines if you have a pet make sure they are settled in another room.

And finally…

The team are always available for help and advice, if you would like to practice your technique we can setup a mock video call for you.