Graduate job interviews can be very daunting experiences. It is important to be prepared so that you maximise your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you navigate the graduate interview process, including what to do before, during and after an interview.
Before the interview
Employers typically receive a great number of applications for a role, so it is important to stand out. One easy way to do this is by researching the company you are interviewing for. Researching the company’s values provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the employer and ensures that you are a suitable fit and the type of employee they are looking for. If the employer produces a product or resource, familiarise yourself with it. This shows initiative and allows you to style your answers to interview questions in a way that demonstrates your seriousness for the role.
Read over the job description carefully so that you understand the responsibilities you are required to fulfil. This allows you to showcase any relevant qualifications, prior experience, and skills during the interview to demonstrate the transference of skills to the role you are interviewing for. The interviewer will be informed of your capability, and thus, your suitability!
During the interview
Display behaviour that reflects positively upon yourself. Remember to be confident and assured in your capabilities but also polite. Maintain eye-contact and wear professional attire. Listen to what the interviewer says and keep your answers concise and insightful.
Be enthusiastic about the position and the company’s goals and values. Making a positive impression is incredibly important as it shows the interviewer that you are the right fit for their company. It is also essential to be authentic; do not pretend to be someone you are not! Let your personality speak for itself. In this way, the interviewer can assess your suitability against the company’s culture. Being yourself can make you stand out as there is only one you!
After the interview
Follow up with an email thanking the employer for the opportunity to be interviewed. Gratitude goes a long way as it demonstrates sincerity. If the interviewer has been interviewing a substantial number of candidates, this allows you to remain memorable and front of mind. After a suitable period of time has passed, follow up to see if you were successful for the job. Even if you do not get the role, this allows you to potentially receive some feedback that you can take on board for your next interview.
These tips can help you feel prepared for your graduate interview. Companies want to hire individuals that fit the job description and showing that you have those skills and care about the role goes a long way. At the end of the day, it is important to try your best and take every setback as an opportunity for improvement.