If you’re looking to kick start your career after University it’s likely that you have spent a great deal of time searching for graduate job roles and applying for the ones that take your fancy. If you’re lucky enough to be invited for an interview it shows that the employer is interested in your skills and experience so nailing the interview could get you that job offer! Want to know How to nail that Graduate job interview? Don’t make these mistakes!
Don’t be late
It’s a pretty simple ask. If you can’t be on time for your interview it will raise questions on your punctuality moving forward if they were to offer you a job role. Look up exactly where you have to go and if you can, do a ‘dry run’ of the journey to see how long it will take you to get there. Aim to arrive 5-10 minutes before the interview time – any earlier can create an awkward situation so you also need to avoid turning up too early!
Don’t be empty-handed
Even if they haven’t asked you to prepare anything it is always useful to come to your interview well-prepared. Research the company and their main competitors and prepare a short presentation / notes on your findings. It will show initiative and impress the interviewer! I would also suggest printing a couple of copies of your CV and bring these along in case they have not done this for you.
Don’t dominate
Let your interviewer lead the conversation and respond concisely when asked questions. You need to strike a balance between communicating well and not talking too much so be aware of this when in conversation. It seems obvious but it’s important not to argue with the interviewer – we have had candidates do this in the past and it is almost always an instant no.
Don’t freeze
We’ve all been there – you research and prepare as best as you can but when asked a simple question you end up like a deer caught in the headlights! Try and keep the conversation flowing and bring up a prepared subject / answer if you feel you are drawing a blank. This is another reason why it’s good to bring along a presentation as it gives you visual aids and acts as a prompt on subjects you want to discuss.
Don’t be vague
It’s easy to reply to your interviewers questions with simple answers but make sure you elaborate with examples of how you have dealt with similar situations or used the required skills previously. At the end of the day they already know the skills you have from looking at your CV, now is your time to prove why they should hire you!
Don’t forget to say thanks
A thank you costs nothing – make sure you shake the interviewers hand and give them a big friendly thanks before you leave. It’s always good to follow up so send an email later in the day to thank them for seeing you and expressing your interest in the role.
Remember these tips in your graduate job interview and it should stand you in good stead to go out there and impress your potential new boss!
Sophie Heaton (Digital Campaign Manager)