Whether you are new to interviewing or have not interviewed for a while, preparation is one key to success. Making a positive first impression impacts whether you advance in the hiring process.

At Mercer Bradley, we want to help maximize your chances of moving forward in the interview process. You can use the following list of proven techniques for a successful interview.

Maximize your chances for a successful interview by implementing these top tips.  

Tips to Prepare for Success Before Your Interview

• Research the company, role, and interviewers. For instance, check the company website and the internet for relevant company information, current news, and industry trends. Also, use LinkedIn to review your interviewers’ backgrounds and careers.
• Practice answering common interview questions. Include the behavioural questions listed below. This increases your confidence and ability to think quickly.
• While preparing for typical interview questions, it is important that your responses remain authentic and real. Using online AI tools, such as Chat GPT or scripts, may be used as a starting point, but not as a verbatim response. Remember, if you have access to those tools, so does your interviewer!
• Write down questions to ask the interviewer. Focus on learning more about the company, team, and role.
• Review your social media accounts. Ensure they portray the professional image you want your interviewers to see.
• Google the company’s address to see how long the commute is. Practice getting to the office at the time you would leave for your interview. This gives you an idea of when to leave so you arrive on time.

Tips to Prepare for Success on the Day of Your Interview

• Choose suitable clothing for your interview. Base your decision to wear casual, business casual, or formal attire on the type of role you are interviewing for.
• Ensure your hair is neatly styled.
• Any makeup should be minimal.
• Refrain from wearing perfume, cologne, or other scented products. Many people are sensitive to scent.
• Have a notepad and pen with you to take notes.
• Refrain from chewing gum during your interview.
• Leave your phone in the car to avoid being interrupted during your interview. If you need to keep your phone with you, completely turn it off before leaving your vehicle.
• Arrive no more than 10 minutes before your interview starts. This shows you value punctuality and respect the interviewers’ time.
• Use a hardwired connection rather than Wi-Fi for a virtual interview. Otherwise, ensure your Wi-Fi connection is strong and reliable. Make sure all programs are closed and nobody in your home is streaming games, videos, or music.
• Pay attention to your appearance on your computer screen. For instance, ensure your lighting, positioning, and background look professional. Also, have a light source in front of you so the interviewers can see you. Additionally, if you have a window behind you, close the shade so your face is easier to see.
• Find a quiet location that is free of distractions and noise. Ask any household members to take care of pets and remain quiet during your interview.

Tips to Be Successful During Your Interview

• Make a positive first impression by smiling, introducing yourself, and shaking hands with or waving to the interviewers.
• Look at your camera rather than your computer screen. This gives a feeling of making eye contact with your interviewers.
• Monitor your body language. For instance, sit up straight and smile. Also, relax your shoulders and place your hands in your lap. Additionally, keep your feet on the ground. Plus, slightly lean forward to show engagement in the conversation.
• Mirror your interviewers’ pace and tone. Showing commonality builds trust and respect.
• Near the end of your interview, ask whether any further clarification about your work experience and how it relates to your success in the role is required. You want to paint a clear picture of how your qualifications equip you for the position.
• Let the interviewers know whether you still are interested in the company and the role. This impacts whether you are asked to advance in the hiring process.

Practice Answering Behavioural Interview Questions

• Tell me about a time when you had to go above and beyond the call of duty in order to get the job done.
• What is your greatest failure and what did you learn from it?
• Tell me about a time when you had too many things to do and had to prioritize your tasks.
• Give me an example of a time when you set a goal and were able to meet it.
• Describe a time when you anticipated potential problems and developed preventative measures.
• Give me an example of a time when you motivated others.
• Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult person, such as a colleague, vendor, or customer.

Looking for Additional Interview Preparation?

Partner with a recruiter from Mercer Bradley to prepare for your next interview in Winnipeg. Visit our job board today!