Text

10 tips ahead of the job interview

Your CV and cover letter are ready to go. You have sent in your application and now you’ve been called for an interview. This can feel tough and you may be nervous, but don’t worry. Here are 10 tips for you on how to land that dream job.

Student och lärare som pratar.

1. Don’t underestimate practice and preparation!

Make a habit of saving the job advert after you have sent in the application. In that way you can easily go back and double-check exactly what the job entails and what skills and qualities the employer is looking for. This makes it easier for you to prepare for questions on how suitable you are for the position.


2. What questions will probably come up?

At the interview you will be asked several questions by the employer. The questions will be both specific to the position you’ve applied for, but they will also be of a general nature. Reflect on what questions you think might come up in the interview and practise answering them at home. Don’t forget to have a good answer as to why the employer should employ just you. Think also about some questions you would like to ask the employer. Asking questions in the interview shows that you are interested and engaged in the position.


3. Read up about the employer/company

Find out for example when the company was established, and what their vision and philosophy is, what services and products they sell and if anything newsworthy has happened lately. This gives you a good indication of how you should answer the questions at the interview and show the employer that you’re interested.


4. Who will conduct the interview?

If you know who the person(s) is who will conduct the interview you can prepare yourself better. You can review the people for example on LinkedIn to see what skills they have which have taken them to where they are today. Make sure to remember their names. This gives a positive impression.


5. Where and how will the interview take place?

Not all interviews are conducted face to face. Find out how the interview will be conducted. If you need to get to a certain place, then find out in advance how to get there. Make sure to get there on time.

If it will be a digital interview on Zoom or similar, make sure you have a reliable connection.

If it’s going to be a digital interview with a webcam it might be a good idea to think about where you’re sitting so that your background is something you feel comfortable with and that represents you in conjunction with the position you are applying for.


6. Body language!

It’s okay to be nervous but in that case bear in mind that this may influence your body language. Your body language reveals a lot about you as a person. Remember to sit or stand with your back straight, but don’t be too tense. Try to relax as much as you can.


7. Dress for the role

Make sure you look neat and tidy. How you present yourself is the first impression that the employer receives. Make sure that it’s a great first impression. If possible, you can find out whether the workplace has a dress code and in that case dress yourself according to that.


8. What should I take with me?

Bring a copy of your CV and cover letter with you. You can take work samples with you if the position requires this. It may also be useful for you to take a notebook and pencil with you so that you can take notes during the interview. Don’t forget to be attentive during the interview; don’t immerse yourself too much in your notebook.


9. Avoid filler words such as ”uh”

At the beginning of the interview the questions are usually a little easier. These can concern classical questions about your previous employments and experience. When the questions get more difficult you may need to reflect a little more. Then you should avoid filler words such as ”uh”. Avoiding such words shows that you are self-confident. Instead of ”uh” you could take a moment’s pause before answering the question.


10. Follow up

After the interview you can follow up with a thank-you email. Then you could also take the chance to send information that you may have forgotten to say during the interview, or something you have agreed to provide later, for example your portfolio.


Good luck!