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In today’s competitive job market, making a good first impression at a job interview is crucial.

Employers often form their initial opinions within the first few minutes, so it’s important to leave a positive and lasting impression.

Whether you are looking to take a step up the career ladder or you are returning to work following redundancy, job interviews can be incredibly anxiety-fuelling. To help you succeed, here are some dos and don’ts for acing your next job interview.

Dos:

1. Dress smartly: Opt for professional attire that reflects the company’s dress code. A well-fitted suit or a formal outfit will demonstrate your seriousness and professionalism. Don’t forget to polish your shoes and wash/brush your hair as well!

2. Research the company: Take the time to learn about the company’s mission, values and recent achievements. This will show your genuine interest and enthusiasm during the interview.

3. Arrive on time: Punctuality is key. Plan your journey in advance, allowing extra time for unexpected delays. Arriving a few minutes early will give you a chance to compose yourself and gather your thoughts.

4. Maintain good body language: Project confidence and engagement by maintaining eye contact, sitting up straight and smiling. A firm handshake upon introduction can also leave a positive impression.

5. Prepare thoughtful questions: Show your interest and enthusiasm by asking insightful questions about the company, the role and the working environment. This demonstrates your commitment and eagerness to learn more.

Don’ts:

1. Don’t be unprepared: Failing to research the company or the role can signal disinterest or lack of initiative. Take the time to thoroughly understand the position you’re applying for and align your skills accordingly. And be sure to revisit your application form and covering letter to make sure you remember what you wrote.

2. Don’t assume who the interviewers are: When it comes to job interviews, it is essential that you treat everyone in the building (and car park, for that matter) with the same high level of respect and regard. From a cleaner to a receptionist, a personal assistant to a manager, it is possible that anyone with whom you interact will be asked for feedback.

3. Don’t be negative: Avoid criticising previous employers or colleagues. Focus on highlighting your strengths and achievements instead of dwelling on negative experiences.

4. Don’t dominate the conversation: While it’s important to showcase your skills, remember that an interview is a two-way conversation. Allow the interviewer to ask their questions and listen actively to their responses.

While you want your interview to go to plan, things often happen, so we wanted to share a few examples to make you smile.

Job Interview 1:

During one job interview, I was asked a question that caught me off guard: “If you were a superhero, which one would you be?” After a moment of surprise, I decided to embrace the unexpected and replied, “If I were a superhero, I would be ‘The Multitasker,’ capable of juggling multiple projects with ease and saving the day with efficiency.” The interviewer chuckled, and it turned into an engaging conversation about the importance of managing priorities in the workplace.

Job Interview 2:

In another interview, I unintentionally spilled water on the table while reaching for my glass. Mortified, I quickly grabbed a tissue to clean up the mess, and to my surprise, the interviewer laughed and said, “Well, it’s good to know you’re not afraid to make a splash!” This unexpected moment of levity helped break the tension, and we continued the interview with a more relaxed atmosphere.

In conclusion, making a good first impression at a job interview requires preparation, professionalism, and a positive attitude. By following the dos and don’ts, researching the company, and showcasing your skills with confidence, you can increase your chances of leaving a lasting impact on potential employers. Remember, a touch of humour and the ability to adapt to unexpected situations can also go a long way in making a memorable impression.

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