How to Prepare for an Interview
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but with proper preparation, you can walk into any interview with confidence. Whether it's a video interview, a phone interview, or an in-person interview, each format has its own unique set of challenges.
We spoke to our professional recruiters to get their top tips for how you can best prepare for each type of interview.
How to Prepare for a Video Interview
A video interview can take place on a number of different platforms including Google Meet, Zoom, Teams and more. Unlike a traditional in-person interview, a video one requires a different set of preparation.
Our top tips to prepare are:
Test Your Technology: Ensure your internet connection is stable, and test your webcam and microphone. It is so important to familiarise yourself with the video conferencing software that will be used that will be used ahead of time. If you haven’t used it before, try to set up a practice call with a friend to ensure that you are confident with it.
Choose the Right Location: Select a quiet, well-lit room where you won’t be disturbed. It’s important to ensure that the location is somewhere you are comfortable, so that you are able to sit there for the duration of the interview. The background should be clean and professional.
Dress Professionally: Dress as you would for an in-person interview. This not only shows professionalism but also helps you feel more confident.
Prepare Your Space: Have a copy of your CV, any notes from your research, a notepad, and a pen nearby. Close any unnecessary applications on your computer and put your phone on silent to avoid any unnecessary distractions. Make sure you have a drink nearby. This will give you something to sip if you get a tickle in your throat, or to give you a moment to think about the answer you want to give.
Body Language: Sit up straight, smile, and avoid fidgeting. If you know you struggle with nerves, the good thing about a video interview is that you can use a fidget or doodle on a piece of paper to help keep you focused and calm.
How to Prepare for a Phone Interview
Much like a video interview, a phone interview offers you a different environment and different challenges to the traditional interview setting.
Our top tips to prepare are:
Charge Your Phone: Ensure your phone is fully charged and in good working condition. If possible, use a landline to avoid any signal issues.
Find a Quiet Space: Choose a quiet environment where you won’t be interrupted. Tell anyone around you when the interview will be so that they can keep noise levels and distractions to a minimum.
Keep Your CV Handy: Have a printed copy of your resume and the job description in front of you for reference. That will help you easily refer back to your job history if needed.
Practise Your Responses: Since the interviewer can’t see you, it’s important to ensure your answers are confident, clear and concise. It is perfectly acceptable to make some notes about specific questions or information you think might come up.
Listen Carefully: Pay attention to the questions and don’t interrupt. If you miss something, politely ask the interviewer to repeat it.
How to Prepare for an In-Person Interview
Our top tips to prepare are:
Research the Company: Understand the company’s mission, values, and recent achievements. This will help you tailor your answers to show how you fit with the company culture.
Plan Your Route: Know exactly where the interview will take place and plan your route. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to account for any unforeseen delays and check your method of travel a few times before you leave to make sure you have enough time.
Dress Appropriately: Choose professional attire that aligns with the company’s dress code. When in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed.
Bring Necessary Documents: Bring a copy of your CV and any other required documents. Although they will likely have your CV available to them, it can be useful to have a print out in front of you both. You might also like to bring a notepad and pen to take notes. You could write any questions you have about the role in this ahead of time to refer back to.
Be Aware Of Your Body Language: Offer a firm handshake, make eye contact, and maintain good posture. Be mindful of nervous habits and try to stay composed.
General Tips for All Interviews
No matter where your interview takes place, there are a few tips that can ensure it goes smoothly.
Know Your CV: Be ready to discuss any part of it in detail.
Practise Common Questions: Prepare for common interview questions and practise your answers to boost your confidence when it comes to answering them.
Be Honest: If you don’t know the answer to a question, it’s better to be honest than to guess or make something up.
Follow Up: Send a thank-you email after the interview to express your appreciation for the opportunity.
The key to success, no matter where your interview is, will always be preparation. By taking the time to anticipate specific situations based on the type of interview you’ll be facing, you can reduce anxiety and perform at your best.
From all of us here at Cera, good luck!
If you’d love to put these tips to the test and apply for some of our roles you can apply for care roles here, or apply for our support office roles here.
