This is not only a chance for you to tell the interviewer more about your skills and experience, but it’s also an opportunity to really sell yourself. 

It’s very natural to be nervous about a job interview, but the best way to gain confidence and interview success is to be well prepared. The team at CLIMB is always on hand to help guide you through each step of the recruitment process.

• Think about why you have applied for the job. Do you want a new challenge? Are you looking to progress your career further? Don’t feel you’re the right fit where you are currently? These are the first things you need to be prepared to answer.
• Think about where you want to be and what your needs are moving forward. What are your expectations in terms of the role, company, location, salary, product and management style? It’s okay if you’re not sure on all of these things, we can help guide you, but it’s important to think about this beforehand.

Find out as much information as you possibly can about your potential employer. We are here to provide you this information but don’t just rely on that. Visit a few stores, have a chat to come of the staff working in store and jump on the company website. If you head into an interview armed with more than enough information you really will be bulletproof.

First impressions last, so make a mark on your interviewer with polished and appropriate presentation. We will offer advice as to what is appropriate for the role you are applying for, however it’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed. Also, bear in mind the company culture and tailor your attire to suit this.

The interview is really your only chance to sell yourself so try not to freeze up. Most interviewers try to make you feel comfortable and want to see your personality as well as skill set, so being friendly, personable and enthusiastic is always the key.

• Make sure that you are aware of your strengths and draw on these throughout the interview. What areas do you excel in? How has this worked in your favour? Offering examples to support your answers will stand you in good stead.
• What areas are you maybe not as strong in? Where do you feel you need development? It’s important to know this and being able to recognise this is a bonus to the employer. If you have prepared and thought about it beforehand you’ll be able to overcome objections easily.

Before you head into the interview, think about what you want to know about the company and the role you applied for. Write a list and take it into the interview if it will help you remember. An interview is not just about the employer finding out about you; it’s also your chance to find out if the company will be a good fit for you. Remember, you don’t want to be back in the interviewing chair six weeks down the track because you forgot to ask questions.

By the end of the interview if you are feeling positive about the company and feel it really is where you want to be, then it’s important to clearly state your interest. Find out what the next step is. Make sure not to be over the top but let the interviewer pick up on your interest.

Got a question that’s not covered here? The CLIMB Career Doctor is here to help.