Interview Tips & Tricks
Interview Tips and Tricks
Interviews can feel high-pressure, but with the right preparation and mindset, they’re also a valuable opportunity to show your strengths and determine whether the role is the right fit for you. As we work closely with candidates and hiring managers, we’ve seen first-hand which approaches work, and which ones fall flat.
Below are practical, effective tips to help you approach your next interview with clarity and confidence.
- Prepare Thoroughly, But Avoid Sounding Rehearsed
Research the company’s background, mission, and recent developments, but don’t rely on scripted answers. Instead, prepare three or four strong examples from your experience that demonstrate relevant skills, adaptability, and problem-solving ability. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure these clearly and concisely.
- Understand the Role in Detail
It’s important to go beyond the job title. Review the job description carefully and identify the key competencies the employer is seeking. Align your experience with these areas, and if you lack direct experience in one aspect, show how transferable skills or a willingness to learn can bridge the gap.
- Be Clear on Why You’re a Good Fit
A strong interview answer doesn’t just explain what you’ve done—it connects your experience to why you’re the right candidate for this specific role at this specific company. Talk about what genuinely interests you about the business, its culture, and the work itself. Employers notice when your motivation feels sincere.
- Demonstrate Soft Skills Through Examples
Soft skills such as communication, leadership, and resilience are often as important as technical expertise. Instead of listing these traits, give brief, relevant examples of how you’ve applied them. This adds credibility and shows self-awareness.
- Ask Insightful Questions
When given the opportunity to ask questions at the end of the interview, avoid asking things easily found online. Instead, ask about team dynamics, performance expectations, or development opportunities. For example:
- “How do you measure success in this role over the first six months?”
- “What are some of the challenges the team is currently facing?”
- “How does the company support long-term career growth?”
These questions show that you’re engaged and thinking long-term.
- Manage Nerves Proactively
Feeling nervous is completely normal. Rather than trying to eliminate nerves, focus on managing them. Practice your responses aloud, take a few deep breaths before the interview, and remind yourself that the interview is a two-way conversation. Interviewers want to see the real you, not a perfect performance.
- Follow Up
A brief, professional thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview leaves a positive impression. Reiterate your interest in the role and mention one or two specific points from the conversation that resonated with you. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference.
In Summary
A successful interview isn’t just about qualifications, it’s about preparation, communication, and alignment. Show that you understand the role, that you’ve taken the time to prepare thoughtfully, and that you’re genuinely interested in contributing to the organisation.
With the right approach, you won’t just perform well, you’ll stand out.
Take a look at our current vacancies, see if anything stands out!
Dovetail Recruitment are an independent Recruitment Agency in Bournemouth. Follow us to keep up to date with The South’s Job Market Report, Recruitment in Hampshire & Dorset + HR news, as well as our latest jobs, career tips + everything else related to your working world.
 |
 |
 |
 |
