Tips and Tricks on How to Prepare For a Graduate Job Interview

Posted by GradConnection

Updated on 20 October 2022

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially if it’s your first time as a graduate with the opportunity of getting a career in your desired field. Here are 7 tips on how to prepare for a graduate job interview.

1. Research the company

Always research and find out as much information as you can about your potential employer ahead of time. Be prepared to talk about the company and why you want to work there - don't forget to be specific to your role!

2. Reflect on your attributes

After understanding the organisation, it's important to also take the time to reflect on your expereince, strengths, weaknesses and unique attributes that you can bring up in the interview to help you stand out.

3. Arrive 15-30 minutes early

Being late to your first interview, whether virtual or in-person is a bad look - allow yourself to have plenty of time before the interview so you can stay cool, calm and collected.

4. Make a good first impression

You can either make or break your interview in the first five minutes. Do make a good first impression by appearing friendly and outgoing, giving positive reactions and assertive body language, and being attentive to your interviewer. Don't appear overly arrogant or bad mouth your past positions, companies or employers.

6. Be self-confident

There's a fine line between appearing overbearing and assertively self-confident. Don't be afraid to bring up your achievements and why you would fit the position of the job interview. Discuss your accomplishments and your worth; what you have done in the past that could be of advantage in the position and times where you've demonstrated a proactive attitude.

7. Remain involved and interested

Interviews that take place with an active two-way conversation is the most effective as it helps get you involved and state your interests in the position as well and have questions prepared to ask the interviewer as well to show initiative and ambition. Practice active listening to signal to show the interview that you're engaged without interrupting them. 

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Need more resources on interview preparation? Check out the following articles:


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