Five Essential Points to get across in an Interview

April 12, 2024

How to be successful in job interviews

Regardless of the company or role the interview is for, the majority of us get nervous, but the more preparation you do for your interview, the easier you’ll be able to show the interviewer why you are the right person for the job. So, we thought we’d give you some pointers on how to have a successful job interview!

Here are five key points you should try and ensure come across to have a successful job interview:

1. Company Knowledge

Nine times out of ten, the first question an interviewer will ask you will be what do you know about them. Employers want to be able to see, and believe, that you have a genuine desire to work for their company and will be a committed employee. There’s nothing worse for an employer than being faced with a candidate who has no knowledge of the business and is just after any old job. Therefore, it is essential to demonstrate that you know about the company, its history and understand their future plans and culture. All this information can usually be found on their website, including the main people within the company and any new product launches, etc. and a lot of other information will likely be available on their LinkedIn or possibly even Facebook pages depending on the client. The interviewer won’t expect you to know all the ins and outs but a few facts and figures will be enough to show your interest in the company.

2. Related Skills & Training

Before you go to any interview, carefully read the job description and make notes on what you have done previously, what similarities there are between the job and your previous experience, and why you think you’d be a good fit for the role. Although your interviewer will have your CV or at least seen your CV prior to the interview, there is much more you can say within an interview to describe your skills, knowledge and experience. Think of other skills or qualifications that you have acquired over the years (formal or self-development) – this can include proficiency in software programmes or even training specific to your previous job. These are the points that are more relevant to be discussed face to face and would not necessarily be relevant to have on your CV as this is a concise document.

3. Measurable Examples of Success

It is highly likely that the interviewer has already met or will be meeting several other candidates for the role, so you need to make sure that you stand out above the rest. Try and steer clear of the common phrases that all the other candidates are likely to use, such as “I am reliable” or “I am honest” etc. Instead, discuss situations where you have demonstrated these qualities with a positive effect.

4. Positive Attitude & Flexibility

In most jobs, there are situations where you are expected to go above and beyond your job and do things that aren’t in your remit in order to complete a task. This is all part of the natural ebb and flow of working life and not something to be avoided. Employers need employees that they can rely on, so interviewees who demonstrate a willingness to be flexible and stretch themselves are more likely to get the job.

5. Manners & Presentation

This may seem obvious, but it’s surprising how many people forget. Be polite to each person you meet, from the receptionist to your potential boss. Make sure to smile, and say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ when appropriate and demonstrate that you would be a friendly and valuable addition to the company. When it comes to making the final decision between two equally qualified candidates, the more personable individual is bound to get the job. Also, ensure you are dressed appropriately, and having a hair brush handy can never hurt!

If you remember all these points and try to include them in the interview, you can feel confident that you will be able to perform to the best of your ability. If you don’t get the job, don’t feel disheartened; instead try to think how you could improve for next time. Each opportunity is a learning curve and remember, no one gets everything right first time!

Best of luck and wishing you a successful job interview!