Top tips for standing out during an interview process

As Headhunters, we spend a lot of our time preparing candidates for the first interview stage with the hiring manager. Our goal is not just to match a CV with a job description but to ensure a seamless fit between the candidate and the organisation. Our insights into the hiring manager's preferences and the company culture are invaluable tools that can elevate a candidate's interview performance. By using this expertise, candidates can align themselves more closely with what the employer is looking for, thereby increasing their chances of success.

However, despite the thorough preparation, we are sometimes still finding ourselves having conversations with hiring managers afterward to hear that the candidate still got some of the fundamentals wrong. Some common pitfalls we see include failing to clearly articulate how past experiences align with the role, not having specific examples ready to demonstrate key skills, or overlooking the importance of aligning your personal values with the company culture. These are small but critical elements that can make or break an interview.

First impressions really do count in an interview process and it’s important to make sure you present yourself in the best way possible, right from the first moment. Below are some key things to remember when it comes to the big day; 

Research the company and the role: Before the interview, research the company's history, culture, values, and expectations for the role you are applying for. This will help you understand what the company is looking for and allow you to better tailor your answers to fit the organisation. Being able to demonstrate an understanding of the company will also show the hiring manager that you are both committed and genuinely interested in this position. Turning up prepared will only allow you to feel more confident during the interview and this will most likely bring about the best version of yourself.

Positivity: Remember, enthusiasm and a positive attitude can be as important as your qualifications. Hiring managers are not only looking for someone who can do the job but also for someone who is genuinely excited about the opportunity and will be a positive addition to their team. They have taken time out of their day to interview and will want to enjoy this process as well. The Hiring Manager leaving having had an enjoyable experience themselves will only benefit you.

Practice answering common questions: Prepare for the interview by practicing your responses to common interview questions such as "What are your strengths and weaknesses?" or "Why do you want to work here?" Hiring managers will expect you to have competent and fulfilling answers for these types of questions and not doing so could show a lack of preparation and commitment.

Arrive early: Plan to arrive at the interview location at least 10-15 minutes early. This will give you time to check in, collect your thoughts, and compose yourself before the interview. On top of this you will likely be attending a new location and as such getting lost is a likely possibility and turning up late is not a good start.

Practice good body language: During the interview, be aware of your body language. Maintain eye contact, sit up straight, and use appropriate hand gestures when speaking. This will show the interviewer that you are confident and engaged. Remember, studies show that at least 70% of all communication is non-verbal, so this is hugely important to get right.

Ask questions: At the end of the interview, you will more than likely be asked if you have any questions. Even though this is common in almost every interview, candidates still don’t prepare themselves for this. Make sure prior to the interview you have prepared some questions to ask and even if they have been answered during the interview, highlight this at the end.

Now, we're not suggesting that applying all of the above it is a guarantee you will get the job, however, showing a lack of awareness to them can certainly almost guarantee you won’t be in contention!