Congratulations! You’ve landed a job interview. Now, it’s your chance to shine and convince your potential employers that you’re the perfect fit for the role. We revisit an old Paramount Personnel blog post Job Interview Dos and Don’ts to see if any of our expert advice has changed. As in the ever-evolving world of job interviews, we need to know whether the old dos and don’ts are still relevant. Let’s look back and see if there are any updates or alternative advice needed. So, you can be ready to ace your interview!
Don’t Arrive Late / Do Plan Ahead
Old advice: Arriving late leaves a bad impression. Plan your journey and aim to be at least 10 minutes early.
Updated advice: This remains as crucial as ever. However, with remote interviews becoming more common, technical issues can arise. Make sure you’re familiar with the technology being used and test your equipment beforehand.
Dress to Impress
Old advice: Dress professionally to show you’re serious about the role.
Updated advice: With the rise of remote and online work, the definition of “dressing to impress” may vary. For virtual interviews, dress appropriately for the company culture, but also ensure your background is tidy and professional.
Do Your Research
Old advice: Research the company and the role to avoid being caught off guard.
Updated advice: Absolutely essential. However, focus not only on the company’s history but also on recent news, industry trends, and the company’s response to current events. This demonstrates your genuine interest and adaptability.
Don’t Come Unprepared / Do Over-Prepare
Old advice: Prepare for the interview by researching the job and practicing answers to potential questions.
Updated advice: Still true. But also, be ready for unconventional questions that assess your problem-solving skills or ability to think on your feet. Employers are increasingly looking for creativity and adaptability.
Do Ask Questions
Old advice: Show interest in the role by asking thoughtful questions.
Updated advice: Ask questions that demonstrate your understanding of the company’s challenges and how you can contribute to solving them. Consider asking about the company’s approach to diversity and inclusion initiatives or plans for future growth.
Don’t Lie
Old advice: Be truthful in your CV and during the interview.
Updated advice: Integrity is non-negotiable. However, focus on highlighting your strengths and experiences rather than exaggerating or embellishing.
Do Listen
Old advice: Pay attention and engage with the interviewer.
Updated advice: This remains crucial, especially in virtual interviews where distractions are more prevalent. Practice active listening, maintain eye contact (even virtually), and avoid multitasking.
Don’t Be Rude
Old advice: Stay engaged and avoid behaviours that may come across as disrespectful.
Updated advice: In virtual interviews, it’s easy to get distracted by notifications or other devices. Ensure your phone is silenced and give the interview your full attention. Even if you’re not interested in the role, remain courteous and professional; you never know what opportunities may arise in the future.
While many of the old job interview dos and don’ts still hold true, there are nuances and updates to consider, particularly in the era of virtual interviews. By staying informed, adaptable, and professional, you’ll be well-prepared to impress any potential employer.
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