Career Guide

How to Succeed in The
Interview

Table of Contents

Before the Interview
During the Interview
After the Interview
Conclusion

Success in job interview: How to prepare, behave, what not to say and questions often asked in job interview – a comprehensive guide.

According to the LinkedIn Research:

82% of professionals looking for a career switch this year
55% jobseekers say the job search has become tougher
49% are applying more but hearing back less from employers

Before the Interview

Research the Company:

  • Understand the company’s mission, values, and recent accomplishments.
  • Familiarize yourself with the industry trends and challenges they might be facing.

Know the Role:

  • Carefully review the job description to align your skills and experiences with the role’s requirements.

Practice Common Questions:

  • Prepare answers for questions like “Tell me about yourself” or “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
  • Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure responses for behavioural questions.

STAR Interview Method Template

Common interview questions for STAR responses?

Ask the Expert

PMAC Panel of Experts offer valuable insights.

If you have specific questions, we can connect you with relevant experts.

Enquire

During the Interview

First Impressions Matter:

  • Arrive on time (or join online a few minutes early).
  • Greet the interviewer with a warm smile and firm handshake (if in-person).

Show Confidence:

  • Maintain eye contact and sit with good posture.
  • Speak clearly and avoid filler words like “um” or “like.”

Be Authentic:

  • Share your achievements while being honest about your experiences.

Connect Your Skills to Their Needs:

  • Emphasize how your abilities align with the challenges the company is looking to address.

Listen Actively:

  • Ensure you fully understand questions before responding.

Handle Tough Questions Gracefully:

  • For example, when discussing weaknesses, focus on how you’re working to improve them.

After the Interview

Express Gratitude:

  • Send a thank-you email to the interviewer within 24 hours, reiterating your interest in the role.

Reflect and Learn:

  • Analyse what went well and what could be improved for next time.

Follow-Up:

  • If you haven’t heard back within the expected timeline, a polite follow-up email is appropriate.

Conclusion

Remember, interviews are a two-way street – you’re evaluating the company just as much as they’re evaluating you. Which part of the interview process do you find most challenging? Connect with us to help you tackle it!