Nearly every company has its tailored recruitment process which may be divided into shorter or longer steps depending on the complexity of the position and client requirements. Usually, there are at least 1 pre-selection interview, 1 assessment, and 1-2 technical /client interviews before you get an offer.
Since the pandemic, the recruitment process has changed, and there are pros and cons for sure. Some of the cons like meeting the team in person and technicalities can lower the chances you present yourself better. To overcome the obstacles, resilience in each situation is what we should strive for.
Since we’ve noticed that great candidates have performed low on client interviews, here are some tips on how to ace the interview to get the job you want.
The Interview Preparation Phase
Before starting you should know and be aware of the timing, place, and method of conducting the interview. (zoom, skype, hangout, etc.) Also, make sure you know the time zone and have all the meeting details confirmed via email.
Preparing Your Technical Setup for the Interview
This is something that we usually do even not discuss with the candidates, assuming that this is understandable, but practice has shown that is not always the case.
Double-check everything before you are all set to go. Make sure there aren’t noises in the background and the camera is working if the interview requires video. You should set a comfy area where you are sure you will not be interrupted.
Personal tip: Have a plan for the kids or pets (they might be saints but do not rely on it for too long)
Give yourself enough time and be punctual – this is a good sign. If you could be heard clearly during an interview it may be one of the easiest ways to impress your client.
Researching the Company and Role
When invited for a second interview (usually means that you’ve passed well on a behaviour interview and it seems like you are on a good way). This is the best time to think of any uncertainties you might have for the job itself and refer it to the recruiter.
Without sufficient background knowledge about your future client and the job position, you’ll find it difficult to answer honestly if you were asked why you want to work for us” for example. Always remember to do your homework through research.
Reflecting on Your Professional Journey
These types of questions have many variations. They may come as a question or describe a situation that you might’ve been involved in. Usually, the interviewer or the client is not trying to trick you but necessarily to determine your personality and how you are handling some situations in a professional environment. Even if you get a classy direct question it is good to have prepared an answer based on the things you think are relevant for the interview.
As a hint, it could be a list of things, like projects, situations where you have excelled, or areas where you’ve struggled. Some examples to support your claims could be useful. The goal is to wow your client and highlight your accomplishments with your knowledge or skills.
Engaging with Inquisitive Questions
As you do your research, try to come up with at least three questions you can ask the client. It doesn’t have to be three really, but the research might help you to assemble a few or you may come up with better ones as you go through. With the questions you are making sure it is a two-way communication which indicates that you have been listening to them and that you’re interested in the job as well.
Final Thoughts
It is good to practice, and besides, there are tons of helpful “how to handle interviews” guidelines and tips on the internet. Of course, feeling a bit anxious about going to a job interview is so normal, but a little prep can make you feel relaxed, comfortable, and ready to talk and give your best shot.
Sometimes you might not get the job, but this usually doesn’t mean you’re not good enough, in most cases it may be a decision based on not quite fitting the job description or the right match of personality. The thing is not to take it by heart because you were the best version of yourself while being interviewed.
So, take a chance to explore, research, prep for the job, and ask questions and soon the dream job can land in your hands.
