Interview Tips for Graduates

 

Going for your first interview can be a daunting experience, however it one that you have to undertake if you wish to embark on a new, exciting career! The most important aspect of the interviewing process is to leave your potential employer with a positive impression that will drive him to action and employ you! There are several things that you can do before and during the interview to stand out as an excellent Candidate for example:

 

Before the Interview

 

Be Prepared:

Contrary to popular belief, lack of preparation, not lack of work experience, is one of the most common reasons graduates do not get the position they are applying for. Being prepared does not only include knowing your skills, successes, work experience and personal accomplishments but also knowing facts and figures about the position and the potential employer (ask your Talent Acquisition Specialist for assistance and do research on the company’s website). If you are going for an interview at a JSE listed company, research the share price, study the financials and where relevant, develop questions to ask the interviewer based on your findings. Prior to an interview, match your inventory of skills and qualifications listed on your CV with the requirements of the desired position as well as the current needs of the hiring company.

 

Be on Time:

Ensure that you are armed with the correct address and time of the interview. Always add on an additional 30 minutes to your time to make allowances for traffic and getting lost. If you can, it may be worthwhile traveling there the day before so that you know the route and how long it will take. Being punctual is of utmost importance as it illustrates professionalism and courtesy.

 

Dress Appropriately:

The way you look can most certainly influence employment decisions. If possible, find out if the organisation has a particular dress code and dress accordingly. If this isn’t possible, then a suit for both men and women would be most appropriate. Dressing too casually can give the interviewer the wrong impression and is often associated with lack of motivation.

 

Practice Answers to Potential Questions:

Below is a list of potential questions. It is vitally important that you take the time to think about how you would answer these questions. By preparing correctly you will eliminate any time delays and stuttering and you will be able to answer confidently and with poise and self-belief.

 

Potential Graduate Interview Questions

 

	Tell me a about yourself?
	Have you applied for any other jobs/internships? If so, where?
	What do you consider to be your strengths?
	What are your weaknesses?
	Tell me about a difficult experience either at work or if you haven’t worked before, in life and how you dealt with it.
	What made you decide to study this profession?
	What do you know about our business?
	Do you work well under pressure?
	What are goals and how are you going to achieve them?
	Do you have any major achievements to date?
	What do you do in your spare time?
	Describe how you see the role.
	Would you prefer working with others or working alone?
	Why do you want to work at this company?
	Where do you want to be in 2, 5, 10 years time?

 

At the Interview

 

	Greet the interviewer by surname
	Shake hands firmly
	Be confident in all you say – even if you are feeling shaky at the time as it inspires confidence in you as a Candidate
	Answer all questions honestly – never lie!
	Don’t be negative about your current position or employer
	Display hunger and enthusiasm for the position
	Never bring up salary unless the interviewer brings it up first
	Maintain eye contact throughout the interview
	Thank the interviewer for his time

 

Good Luck!