19 Dec 2019

Not keen to read this one? Have a listen instead...

A lot of the time, job interviews are associated with anxiety and nerves. But if you break an interview down, it's really just a conversation.

Ok, so probably not the type of convo where you can chuck in the occasional swear word and a story about what you did while you were lit on the weekend. Obviously maintain a level of formality. But you don't have to work this up to be anything more than it is. You're not performing in front of thousands or skydiving with a dodgy parachute. You're just having a chat. 

Find some ease, stay calm and smash the interview by sussing out what most employers are looking for when they’re hiring.

1. Reliability

There has to be mutual trust when getting a job. You trust your employer to pay you the right wage and they trust you to get to work on time and do your job. They’re on the lookout for someone who completes tasks before they’re told to, someone who doesn't bludge when things are quiet and always finds something productive to do.

It’s not hard to show this kind of reliability; just make sure you rock up to your interview on time (maybe even five or ten minutes early to be sure) and listen to what the interviewer has to say. Let them know that you’re a diligent worker and ask questions if you’re unsure about any aspect of the job – it’ll show that you’re keen to know more and aren’t afraid to ask for help.

2. Respect

An interviewer wants to see that you’re someone who respects the work and the job you’re doing. To show this, you’re going to want to wear something relatively clean cut and look well put together. Brush your hair, clean your teeth, trim the chin fluff and put some deodorant on... You don't have to wear a suit or dress if the situation doesn't particularly call for it, but try and look clean at the very least.

Having a confident posture can go a long way too – so get those shoulders back and have your body facing the interviewer. Show that you’re keen to listen and learn more from them just from your body language.

3. Eagerness

Perhaps it’s hard to show a lot of excitement when applying for a fast-food restaurant that makes you wear a hairnet, but if you at least show a desire to learn with open ears, employers will appreciate your enthusiasm.

Even if you don’t have a lot of work experience, if employers can see that you have an eagerness to work hard, then you’ll look like a much better option than the super-experienced-but-insanely-dull guy who came in before you.

4. Communication

Sure, some of us aren't the most extroverted and talking to strangers isn't our strong suit, but don't be scared to offer some small talk, even banter if you can manage.

If you are really nervous though, it can help to prepare a few answers to some of the more common interview questions. Things like:

Why do you want to come and work for us? - Is it for work experience? To pick up skills? To meet likeminded people? You’re gonna need something a little more than "I’m here for the money".

What can you bring to the role? - Are you good at problem-solving? Calm in times of crisis? Great at customer service? 

How have you handled a difficult experience? – Interviewers often want you to elaborate about a time in the past when you overcame something challenging, either at work or in your personal life. Be honest and show how you managed to get through this time with tenacity.

5. Positivity

Even if you don’t have a lot of experience, if you have a likeable attitude that radiates a ‘cup is half full’ energy, there’s a better chance they’ll want to pick you over the rest. 

Then at the end, thank the interviewer for their time, give them a firm handshake and leave with a smile, ending it all on a high note.

Now go smash that interview!