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7 ways to stand out from the crowd

In many industries and professions, competition for jobs continues to intensify. Sure, you may tick all the right boxes in terms of qualifications, you may have a compelling track record to talk about, and you may have a winning personality too. But chances are, so will several other candidates.

What, then, can you do to stand out from the crowd? How can you show that you are prepared to go the extra mile – that you both want and deserve the job more than your rivals? Here are some ideas, based on true stories, about how to do just that…

Add a personal touch 

Reaching out to your potential employer following an interview, especially if it’s in a thoughtful way, will help you to be the candidate that leaves a lasting impression. A simple way to do this is to compose a handwritten thank you note following the interview.

It’s an old-fashioned courtesy which, done well, is likely to gain approval; better still, it gives you another chance to get your name in front of your potential employer. Referencing parts of the conversation also shows you were fully engaged throughout the process.

Takeaway: What key points can you make in your personal message which will show how you really engaged with your interviewer? 

Do your research

“I always advise the candidate to have a good answer to the question, ‘What do you know about us?’,” says Suzanne Feeney, country manager at Robert Walters Ireland. “It’s boring if the candidate just recites the About Us page. Read the annual report instead, that way you get a feel for the type of language the company uses and you’re already tapping into their DNA.”

Suzanne adds that the annual report helps candidates to understand what really matters to the organisation. “What sort of phraseology comes up? Is it ‘We’re all about caring for customers’ or ‘We’re here to drive change’ or ‘Our priority is unlocking value for our stakeholders’? Get a good idea of the keywords that characterise the company’s approach, and then you can play those back at interview.”

One candidate for a travel company, asked to give a presentation on how to market a specific resort, took the idea of research literally – she decided to fly to the resort for the weekend! She bought back a jar of sand as evidence, and put together a promotional microsite full of images that she’d taken herself on her trip.

Takeaway: How can you show you’ve gone the extra mile in the way you research for the role?

Start doing the job already

“In the most impressive interview I’ve ever led, within the first 20 minutes I was thinking, ‘I need to hire this person – they need to work for me’,” Suzanne Feeney says. What so impressed her was a candidate who hadn’t just done her research – she was able to demonstrate exactly how she’d add value to the business.

“This candidate was unbelievably well prepared and brought a plan with her of what she would do over the first six months of starting the role,” Suzanne recalls. “She laid out a series of really thoughtful, insightful ideas, including what she’d need from the company to support her. It was a very creative approach – several of her ideas were things we hadn’t even thought of. She spoke to me as if she already had the job – and she completely nailed it.

“When you’re hiring you always know there’ll be a bedding-in period, involving induction and training,” says Suzanne. “So it’s really refreshing to talk to someone who’s already done some significant thinking to get their head around the role. As well as being bright and resourceful, she showed me she really wanted the job with all the time and effort that she’d put into her preparation.

“Pretty much every single recommendation she made has ended up getting actioned, including some I didn’t think would be possible. But of course it wouldn’t have mattered if she hadn’t got everything right, because she showed me that she would have the skills and resourcefulness to come up with new ideas as needed anyway.”

Takeaway: What can you do to show that you’re already thinking and acting as if you’re ready to start the role tomorrow?

Make use of your other skills and experience

Candidates can often stand out by harnessing other skills in the way they prepare for an interview.

One candidate with a background in logistics wowed his interviewers for a professional services role by highlighting some ways they could streamline their service delivery processes, for example. This unique perspective made him stand out from other interviewees.

Another candidate, who came from an e-commerce background but was interviewing for an unrelated role, spotted a gap in the market for a clothing brand which went on to become a significant revenue stream.

Takeaway: What skills from other parts of your life can you put to use in your job search and interview? 

Show your creativity

The creative and promotional industries are full of examples of applicants who have made use of their talents to help their application stand out from the crowd.

Salespeople have been known to present their expertise in the form of a commercial pitch. And creatives have packaged their credentials in a variety of weird and wacky ways – in the form of specially designed cereal packets, Swiss Army knives, Lego kits, action figurines and more.

One candidate famously hired the advertising hoarding opposite the HQ of the company they wanted to work at to get noticed. Another marketing hopeful decided to launch her own ‘hire a boss’ website. She listed her position, organisation and manager requirements, got media coverage for her efforts – and ended up with a dream job.

“Showing creativity in the process demonstrates energy and initiative,” comments Suzanne Feeney. “It’s another way of showing that you are willing to go above and beyond.”

“The aim is to create an impression that resonates with your interviewers and gives them something to think about long after the interview finishes,” adds Louise Tallboy-Wood, who specialises in recruiting part qualified finance professionals in London.

“One candidate interviewing for a finance analyst role at a major fashion brand took the time to conduct in-depth research into the company’s competitors, product range and position in the industry. He used his research to create a visual SWOT analysis and left printed copies for his interviewers to take away. The extra effort did not go unmissed – in addition to securing the role, his interview set a new standard for future candidates.”

Takeaway: Going to such creative lengths is not appropriate or desirable in every industry or sector, of course. But there are always ways to use imaginative presentation to stand out from the crowd, for instance in the look and feel of your slidedeck or by putting together a digitally-savvy personal CV site. 

Show some grit and resilience

“In many senior roles, technical expertise and relevant industry experience are a given,” says Joanne Chua, Robert Walters’ regional client development director for Southeast Asia and Greater China. “But beyond that, what hirers are often looking for today is evidence of softer skills, such as grit and resilience.”

The ability to bounce back from difficulties and learn from adversity is an especially vital skill in today’s workplace, says Joanne. “It shows you can cope and adapt in a fast-moving world with rapid technological changes,” she says. “Businesses today face constant disruption, frequent restructuring and ongoing transformation – employers are looking for anecdotal evidence of your ability to survive and thrive in such a climate.” 

Takeaway: What stories can you tell to illustrate your ability to deal with change and adapt?

Demonstrate a growth mindset

A related soft skill that Joanne says can help you stand out from the crowd is ‘learning agility’ – a willingness and enthusiasm to move with the times, take on new skills and expand into new areas as business requirements and priorities evolve.

“What we learn at school often doesn’t equip us with the tools for the jobs of tomorrow, so you need to be able to demonstrate evidence of your willingness and ability to learn new skills, and adapt or take on new challenges and working patterns,” says Suzanne Feeney.

“Companies invest a lot of money to hire top talent, and so of course they are hiring not just for now but for the future too. So tell stories using real-life examples to demonstrate learning agility and your readiness to stretch yourself. For example, ‘I’m an excellent IT engineer, but to really progress I knew I needed to develop my stakeholder engagement and communication management skills. So here’s how I went about developing my knowledge and skills in this area…’”

Takeaway: What stories can you tell to demonstrate that you are a candidate who is not afraid to learn new things – and you will be an asset to your employer not just today, but in five or ten years’ time?

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As employers refine their recruitment processes to improve their ability to identify the best professionals, competency based questions are becoming increasingly popular in interviews. 

While these questions can be challenging, they also give professionals the opportunity to emphasise their accomplishments and valuable transferable skills at the interview stage. Ensuring that you effectively highlight your strengths is key to success.

 

1. Preparation

As with any interview, preparation is key. Prior to the interview identify examples of specific targets you’ve met or work you’ve done that relates to the job specification. The personal specification and key skills highlighted in the job description are good indicators of the type of questions that will be asked at the interview.

Many employers will want you to provide specific examples of past work and relate it to how you will transfer those skills and your experience into the new role.

"Employers want you to provide specific examples of past work and relate it to how you will transfer those skills and your experience into the new role.

Take the time to consider times you have excelled in previous roles and identify where you have demonstrated the skills the employer is looking for.

2. Rehearse your answers 

Answers to competency based questions need to be delivered in an articulate, detailed and structured way. Candidates must be able to talk the interviewer through their examples, explaining the process used to work through problems or hit targets.

Many professional roles require excellent organisational and time management skills, along with the ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently and effectively.

Think through how your examples highlight these three things to the interviewer before the interview, if your examples don’t highlight this that you may need for the job, try and pick a different example that will.

3. Pay attention to the interviewer 

Reading clues given by the interviewer as to what they are looking for is key in a competency based interview. As you explain your examples, take note of whether the interviewer’s body language or behaviour is generating a positive response.

The strongest candidates are those who can adapt their answers and behaviours to what they know the interviewer is looking for and present them in ways that influence the interviewer. Take your cues from their level of formality to show that you are paying attention to the situation and positioning yourself in a way to help in whatever way you can. 

4. Try to anticipate questions before they are asked 

Having a good idea of what the interviewer will ask you is a key part of the preparation process. If you have considered the likely competency-based questions beforehand, you are less likely to be caught off guard and more prepared to give a great answer. 

Common competency based questions at an interview include:

• Describe a time that you had to work to a tight deadline, while still managing your normal workload 
• Give an example of a complex project or task and how you made sure to see the task through to the end
• Can you describe an instance where you developed a strategy to stay organised and ensure you get all your work done under pressure?
• Describe a time you had multiple projects on – how did you manage your time effectively and prioritise your tasks?

5. Be yourself 

Although part of a competency based interview is selling yourself, you don’t want to come off as fake or insincere. Professionals can tell when someone is trying too hard to give the “correct” answer rather than a genuine one.

Give relevant, honest and structured answers that showcase your experience while letting your personality shine through. Employers don’t want a textbook answer; they want to see the way that you interact and how you present your information. 

Video interviews are becoming more common - are you prepared for them?

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Job interviews can be nerve-wracking and daunting but if you follow our top tips you won’t go wrong.

Know your CV inside out

Your CV will form the basis of the interview discussion so it’s important you can talk at length about everything you’ve done. In particular, expect to talk about each individual transaction – if you say you have worked on an acquisition of a property or asset valued at several million Euro, expect the interviewer to go into minute detail about it.

Research the business

Before you go to the interview, spend several hours thoroughly researching the business. Don’t leave this until the night before as you may not be able to get the information you need first time round.

You should know about recent financial updates and the basic country/office count, which you should be able to get direct from the company website. But you should also read recent press articles, legal journals and the company’s own social media output to add some depth to your knowledge. You may also be able to pick up some ideas for questions at the end of the meeting. For in-house jobs, employers will want you to know exactly what the business does and how it operates so make sure you have done your research.

Be positive

Be positive about everything that you discuss in the interview, even if it’s an old boss you didn’t like. If you spend your interview complaining about your previous employers, the company will – legitimately – wonder what you will be like if they were to hire you. Employers want someone who is upbeat and willing to meet challenges head on.

It’s all in the timing

Don’t turn up for your interview too early or you may end up sitting in the reception area with little to do but get nervous. But don’t leave it too late. Aim to arrive between 10 to 15 minutes before the interview as it may take some time to get signed in and/or past security. The interview room may also be some distance from reception. 

Line managers want someone who ‘fits in' and is able to represent them professionally both internally and externally. 

If you’re travelling from afar or you’re not sure how long it will take to get there and you arrive early, find a nearby coffee shop that you can install yourself in while you do some last minute reading through your notes. 

Leave salary negotiations to your recruiter

Don’t raise the issue of your salary at an interview unless you are asked. You should have an idea of how much the job will pay from the advertisement. If you’re worried that your new employer may not be able to match the compensation package you have in mind, you can raise that if you’re offered the job. Even if you’re asked, don’t give too much away as it may work against you when it comes to negotiations further down the line.

Mirror the mood of the interviewer

Line managers want someone who ‘fits in' and is able to represent them professionally both internally and externally. With cultures varying significantly from one business to another, mirroring the mood of the interviewer is normally your safest bet. However, don’t allow yourself to be anything other than professional at all times and make sure you come across as enthusiastic about the job. 

Dress appropriately

Although dressing appropriately may sound obvious, some people still get it wrong. For in-house jobs, this may vary according to industry. However, a smart suit and trouser/skirt suit or dress and jacket if you’re a woman will be a safe bet. If you are in any doubt about what’s required, speak to your recruiter – he or she will know their client well.

Work on your key message 

Think about why you should be given the job (which isn’t the same as why you want the job) and write down three sentences that sum this up. Include some of the words or phrases used in the job description but don’t shoehorn them in unnaturally. Aim to get your key message into at least one of your answers, but if all else fails and you haven't been able to, do this at the end of the interview by thanking the interviewer for the chance to be considered for the job and delivering your three killer sentences. 

Next steps

To help prepare for the perfect resignation, read our top tips here.

To discuss any of your recruitment needs, please contact one of our experienced consultants on dublin@robertwalters.com or 01 633 4111.

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We’ve been in business for 32 years so we know a thing or two about what it takes to nail a job interview. Drawing on the knowledge of our expert recruiters we’ve developed this comprehensive guide, designed to help you conduct successful interviews and therefore outshine the competition. Regardless of your level, this guide will help you to perfect your interview skills.

Download the Complete Interview Guide or read the chapter highlights below.

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Preparation is the first essential step towards conducting a successful interview. The better prepared you are, the more confident you'll be. Here we provide some useful advice to help you succeed in an interview and gain your next position.

During the interview, you will be assessed for your strengths and weaknesses/areas for development.

What should you know?

• The exact time and location of the interview, route, parking etc and how long it will take to get there.
• The interviewer's correct title and pronunciation of his or her full name.
• Specific facts about the company - its history, financial position, competitors, products and services. Research the company's website in full.
• Facts and figures about your present or former employer. Refresh your memory on this as you will be expected to know a lot about a company for which you have previously worked.
• Prepare some questions to ask the interviewer. Remember that an interview is a two way street. The interviewer will try to determine through questioning whether you are the right person for a specific job. Likewise, you must determine through questioning whether this potential employer will provide the opportunity for career development that you seek.

What are the best interview techniques?

During the interview, you will be assessed for your strengths and weaknesses/areas for development. In addition to this, specific personal characteristics will be examined, such as attitude, aptitude, stability, motivation and maturity.

Some interview dos and don'ts follow:

• DO arrive on time or a few minutes early. Late arrival for a job interview is never excusable.
• DO greet the interviewer by his or her title and surname. If you are not sure of the name pronunciation, ask the interviewer to repeat it.
• DO shake hands firmly.
• DO wait until you are offered a chair before sitting. Sit upright in your chair and look alert and interested at all times.
• DO be as charismatic as possible; it is very important that you demonstrate your interpersonal skills during the interview.
• DO be a good listener as well as a good talker.
• DO smile.
• DO look the interviewer in the eye.
• DO follow the interviewer's leads. Try, however, to obtain a full description of the position and duties it incorporates at an early stage so that you can relay your appropriate background and skills accordingly.
• DO make sure that your good points get across to the interviewer in a concise, factual and sincere manner. Waffle will get you nowhere. Bear in mind that only you can sell yourself and make the interviewer aware of the benefits that you can offer to the organisation.
• DO always conduct yourself as if you are determined to get the job you are discussing. Never close the door on opportunity. It is better to be in a position where you can choose from a number of offers - rather than only one.
• DON'T answer questions with a simple 'yes' or 'no'. Explain yourself whenever possible. Describe those things about yourself that relate to the position on offer.
• DON'T lie. Answer questions truthfully, frankly and as close to the point as possible.
• DON'T make derogatory remarks about your present or former employers.
• DON'T enquire about salary, holidays, bonuses etc. at the initial interview unless you are positive that the interviewer wants to hire you. You should however, know your market value and be prepared to specify your required salary or range.

Which questions should you prepare for?

• Why did you choose a career in accountancy/IT/tax/banking?
• What kind of job are you seeking?
• What is your technical experience?
• Why would you like to work for our company?
• What do you want to be doing in your career five years from now?
• When was your last salary review?
• What style of management gets the best from you?
• What interests you about our product/service?
• What have you learned from some of the jobs you have held?
• Which job did you enjoy the most and why?
• What have you done that shows initiative in your career?
• What are your major weaknesses and what are your strengths?
• What do you think determines a person's progress in a good company?
• Are you willing to relocate?
• What are your hobbies?
• What does 'teamwork' mean to you?

How to close the interview?

• If you are interested in the position enquire about the next interview stage. If the interview offers the position to you and you want it, accept on the spot. If you wish for some time to think it over, be courteous and tactful in asking for that time. Set a definite date on which you can provide an answer.
• Don't be too discouraged if no definite offer is made nor a specific salary discussed. The interviewer will probably want to consult colleagues or interview other candidates (or both) before making a decision.
• If you get the impression that the interview is not going very well and you have already been rejected, don't let your discouragement show. Once in a while an interviewer who is genuinely interested in your possibilities may intend to discourage you in order to test your reaction.
• Thank the interviewer for the time spent with you.

What to do after the interview?

Lastly, and most importantly, call your consultant immediately after the interview to explain what happened. The consultant will want to speak with you before the interviewer calls.

Contact us

To find out about current opportunities and/or to arrange an appointment with one of our specialist recruitment consultants, please contact our Dublin office on +353 (0) 1 633 4111.

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The first few moments of your interview can have a decisive impact on how well the rest of it goes. Here’s five top tips on how to start strong:

1. Remember the interview starts as soon as you leave the house

The interview starts long before you shake hands and sit down around the table. You never know who you might bump into as you get off your bus, or enter the company’s building – for all you know, your interviewer could be in the same coffee-bar queue as you. So make sure you project a friendly, confident, professional air from the moment you set off.

Make sure you arrive early. Give yourself time to have a comfort break and make sure you’re hydrated. Make conversation with the receptionist, switch off your phone and take in your surroundings – you might notice something that will make a useful small-talk topic later. Don’t try and cram in any last-minute facts – you want to come across as calm and organised, not flustered and under-prepared. 

2. Treat everyone you meet as your interviewer

Make sure that you’re polite and friendly to everyone you come across in the interview process. From greeting the receptionist, to the people you share a lift with, to walking through an open-plan office to reach your meeting-room… These are all touchpoints with your potential future employer, and co-workers will often share their impressions of visitors afterwards, so you want everyone who comes into contact with you to see you in as positive a light as possible. 

3. Create a strong first impression

First impressions count, and non-verbal cues matter even more than verbal ones. So in those first few minutes, it’s all about smiling confidently, shaking hands firmly, making eye contact and generally looking as if you’re glad to be there and you want the job. Lean in slightly, widen your eyebrows slightly, and wait to be invited to sit down. In everything you do, project an attitude of energy, enthusiasm and interest. 

Clothes-wise, try to match your dress style to that of the company you’re meeting. You should be able to get a good idea of the company’s typical dress code through its website and social media output, especially any content about its working culture, and your recruiter can advise you too. You want to project some personality and charisma, but you also want to come across as a good fit, so if in doubt always err on the formal side.

4. Be ready for the small talk

Getting the small talk right (or wrong) can have big consequences. It’s a way for people to build rapport and affinity, and start to generate that elusive, intangible quality of ‘chemistry’ that characterises all effective business relationships.

So as part of your interview preparation, it’s a good idea to think ahead to some likely topics that might come up, so as to help keep the conversation flowing smoothly. The key is to come up with topics where you have a shared interest, so that you’re able to both ask and answer credible questions.  

5. Be on message from the outset

Politicians coached in handling the media are always advised to have a maximum of three key messages to get across, which they should stick to and repeat throughout any interview.

Similarly, it’s a good idea to have two or three key points that you want to make about what you have to offer and what you’re looking for – for example, ‘I’m ready for the challenge of managing a team’, ‘I combine compliance experience with technical expertise’, ‘in my career, I’ve developed an extensive digital transformation skillset’.

These are the three key points that you want your interviewer to remember about you. So try and work them in naturally whenever you can, even in the first few minutes. It’s also important to have a ready answer for some of the most common questions that come up early on – such as ‘Tell me why you want this job’ and ‘What’s your understanding of what this job involves?’ 

Next steps

To discuss any of your recruitment needs, please contact one of our experienced consultants on dublin@robertwalters.com or 01 633 4111.

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People tend to adopt similar strategies in their approach to interview preparation, but what will help you stand out from other job seekers? Suzanne Feeney, country manager at Robert Walters Ireland provides a few tips on how to succeed at the interview stage.
Talk to people in the industry and ask questions that will provide insight into the company’s culture, success factors, clients and competitors, as well as its growth and market share.

Do quality research 

If what you know about the organisation interviewing you is available on its website, you can be sure other potential candidates will have already accessed the same information. Instead, be proactive and use other channels to do your research. Talk to people in the industry and ask questions that will provide insight into the company’s culture, success factors, clients and competitors, as well as its growth and market share. Also refer to journals, articles and media coverage of the company to get a sense of their activities and marketing strategies. Industry knowledge and your personal observations will strongly differentiate you from other applicants.

Use testimonials

Testimonials are powerful tools that can strongly differentiate one candidate from another. Tap into your network of contacts and business partners from various industries and find out if they can write a few words on how they feel about you and your work. Collate them into a folder and use it as a self-marketing tool. Hirers tend to be more impressed with what others say about you than what you say about yourself.

Ask questions

It is essential that you are well-prepared to ask questions that will position you as someone who can contribute to the organisation. The following are some questions that are popular with hirers:

• What are the organisation’s growth plans for the next five years?
• What are my career progression opportunities in this organisation?
• What is the company’s culture like?
• Are there learning and development opportunities?
• Are there opportunities to work for the organisation’s overseas offices?
• How would you see someone like myself making a change in your company?
• What is the company’s desired goal/objective for the person taking this role?

Study the job description and think carefully about each aspect so that you can ask specific, insightful and thoughtful questions, therefore demonstrating that you have a genuine interest in the role. The interview is also your opportunity to find out if the job is right for you.

Most importantly, you need to be positive, poised and confident. Focus on your strengths but acknowledge your weaknesses and explain what action you are taking to improve in these areas.

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Given the high level of competition for jobs in the market at present, it is essential to answer every interview question you may be asked in a manner that will make you stand out.

Q: Why do you want this job?

Be honest with yourself: Why do you want this role? Are you really interested in what the position entails? Are you impressed by the company’s view on corporate social responsibility? Or is it just a really impressive increase in salary? We would advise that besides the pay package, you should always look at all aspects of a job such as cultural fit, management style, benefits, growth opportunities etc. before making a decision as these factors are equally critical to your career.

In order to tackle this question, you should know exactly what will be expected of you. Be prepared and do your research. Have you analysed the job description? Have you researched the company’s website? Do you know people who work there who have recommended the company as a good employer? How thoroughly have you researched the industry? Avoid being on the defensive with answers that begin with because, such as: ‘Because I think I’d be good at it’; ‘Because it seems like a good opportunity for me’ or ‘Because it pays well’.

A recommended answer to this could be: ‘Having read the job description and having researched your company thoroughly, I am convinced that not only would the role very much suit my career aspirations and current skill set, I would be able to bring great value in the areas of projects and cost savings (amend as appropriate). I want to work in an organisation where I can add value and contribute to the success of a company and I feel that this role is the perfect opportunity to prove myself.’

Adapt your answer to suit the role. Will you have increased responsibility? Will your previous work experience be a relevant stepping stone? Will you have a more varied work scope with the opportunity to be involved in company projects and events? 

Q: Why should I hire you?

This question is all about selling yourself. Why should someone hire you? What can you contribute and what examples can you give of past results? E.g. “In my last role I increased sales by 150%” or “I reduced the debtors ledger from €2 million to €400k in 3 months”. If you really think you could add value to the company, this is your chance to demonstrate how.

Use the job description as your point of reference and tailor this to your strengths by using examples of work you have previously done in relation to the requirements for this role.

You could say something like: ‘I believe that the job specification listed many skills which I currently could bring to the organisation. The opportunities for me in this role are great – I am excited at the prospect of developing my skills in project management (amend as appropriate). I am very interested in this industry and would relish a chance at proving myself in your department.’

You need to show enthusiasm for the role and be confident in your answers. If you cannot convince yourself that you would be perfect for the role – it will be even more challenging to convince someone else. 

Q: What is your biggest weakness?

This is known as a negative question, one that interviewers use often to test your ability to keep your cool. Let’s face it: we all have weaknesses, and no one is perfect but that does not mean you should allow your weaknesses to get in the way of your dream job. Instead, you should try to spin your weaknesses into something positive. Review the job description and choose one required responsibility you feel you could improve on. For example, are you afraid to make public presentations? Does your time management need a little work? Do you feel you would benefit from further training?

You need to show enthusiasm for the role and be confident in your answers. If you cannot convince yourself that you would be perfect for the role – it will be even more challenging to convince someone else. 

A possible answer (depending on your weakness) would be: ‘I am aware that my systems skills, Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint (amend as appropriate) are not up to advanced level but this is something that I’m working on by teaching myself in my spare time’ or ‘I think time management is something that I could work on. I am getting better at prioritising my work – I am resolute about my “to-do” list and am getting better at saying “no” to the tasks that are not going to add value.’

‘I don’t like it when I am not busy. I perform at my best when I have a constant workload. Whenever there was down-time in my previous job I used to assist in the areas of XYZ to keep myself motivated and challenged – this also gave me an insight into another area/ department within the organisation.’

Avoid being a ‘perfectionist’ or saying things like, ‘I have no weaknesses that I know of’. This only makes you come across as arrogant and overconfident. 

Q: Why are you leaving your current role?

Always remain positive when discussing your reasons for leaving. This is not the time to rant about how unfair last year’s bonus was or how unreasonable your current boss is. Whatever reason you may have for leaving, make sure you give your answer a positive spin. If you are feeling undervalued in your role or had a personality clash with your boss or colleague, consider how your reasons would sound to a potential employer, and make sure that your answer is worded to put you in a favourable light. You should have a structured response to this question before you attend an interview.

Simply stating that you would like a ‘new challenge’ or ‘change of environment’ can sometimes also send out warning signals to employers, as they may be concerned about hiring a job hopper who is constantly on the look out for something more challenging. If you do answer, ‘I’m looking for a new challenge’, be prepared for counter questions such as:

• Why are you looking for a new challenge?
• What would you describe as a new challenge at this stage in your career?
• Why did you not approach your current employers about gaining such a challenge?

Focus more on why the new role is perfect for you and less why your current role is not. Be honest but professional. No employer will want to hire you if you are negative about previous employers and you will immediately be seen as unprofessional.

Q: Tell me about yourself?

You need to tread carefully on this one. This is not the opportunity to tell the interviewer your life story.

‘Well, I’m from a family of six and I live with my eldest brother near the city centre and have recently just returned from a family holiday to America’ is probably not the answer they were looking for. When interviewers ask this question, they are actually more interested to know about how you work, what you enjoy in your career and as a person and how well you would fit in with the culture of the company. They also want to know what interests you, how skilled you are and what strengths you would bring to the organisation.

Be mindful of the type of role you are applying for and adjust your responses accordingly. Avoid expressing your enthusiasm to work as part of a team in a busy noisy office environment if you are aware that you will be a one man band sitting behind a cubicle in a very secluded room. A good answer to this could be something like: ‘I’m a very dedicated worker; I enjoy being part of a team and working in a challenging and dynamic environment and I also work well independently. I like meeting new people and particularly enjoy being involved with new projects and challenges. I balance my passion for work with sport/music/family on weekends which enables me to lead a very challenging and enjoyable life both personally and professionally.’

Q: Where do you want to be in five years time?

This question is a favourite amongst interviewers. Unfortunately, many people are usually not prepared for this question, and few actually know where they want to be in five years time.

A suggested answer for this could be: ‘I’d like to think I will be working for a successful organisation such as this but in a role with increased responsibility’ or ‘I’d see myself leading a team and taking on a regional role’ or ‘Whatever I do, I want to be doing it to the best of my ability. I believe that promotion and salary falls into place if you concentrate on doing the job you have been asked to do well.’

With this question it is the way you answer rather than what you say that’s the most important. Be positive and confident rather than defensive and unsure. Try not to give the interviewer the idea that you are still trying to ‘find yourself’ as that can make you come across as indecisive.

Finally, always remember that the interview is a two-way process, so it is important to have a list of questions you can ask your interviewer at the end. These could include:

• What two/three key competencies are you looking for in a successful candidate?
• How long have you been with the organisation? What motivated you to join the organisation?
• What are the team dynamics like? What are you like to work for?
• Do you have any reservations at this point about my skills or experience?

An interview does not have to be a gruelling process if you are well-prepared and know exactly why you are going for the role. The key to a successful interview is to be positive and constantly market yourself by focusing on your key strengths and achievements, and most importantly how you can add value to the employer. Find out more about interviews with our complete interview guide.

Contact us

To discuss any of your recruitment needs, please contact one of our experienced consultants on dublin@robertwalters.com or 01 633 4111.

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Do you have you a big interview coming up? Then you need our expert end-to-end overview of the whole interview process.

1. Preparation, preparation, preparation

The better prepared you are, the more confident you’ll be. As soon as you know your interview date, start working on your research:

 

• Look at your new company. Research its history, mission, financials and competitors. Check out its social media presence and employee reviews. Don’t forget to look at its latest news, services and product reviews too.
• Review your current employment. Don’t forget to think back over your current and previous companies, and to review your key achievements at each.
• Prepare questions to ask. You might want to ask about career development and training opportunities. Ask too about the company’s plans, and about any topical issues that could affect its performance or its future.  

“One of the most common things people get wrong when asked what they know about the company is to recite facts and figures from the company website. What I’m really looking for is someone who demonstrates they’ve put in extra research by discussing something relevant, unique and interesting about the company” explains Suzanne Feeney, country manager. 

2. Opening the interview

Making a strong start will give you the best chance of interview success.

• Don’t be late! Arrive 10 minutes beforehand, make yourself known at reception, and sit and wait patiently. Look at your body language – are you tense and nervous or relaxed and poised? Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and make sure your muscles aren’t clenched.
• Enter confidently. Shake hands firmly and sit down when asked. Find a relaxed position in your chair, but make sure you stay focused and alert at all times.
• Show off your interpersonal skills. Make eye contact, and don’t forget to smile. Use non-verbal cues such as nodding to show that you are listening actively to what your interviewer is saying. Respond to questions with full answers, and don’t be afraid, when appropriate, to steer the conversation towards the key points you want to make.

“Overfamiliarity is something that really puts me off a candidate. You should always let the interviewer lead the tone of the interview and not behave or speak informally unless the interviewer does so" says Suzanne.

3. Common questions

Make sure you’re listening to the questions and tailoring your answers.

There are some interview questions that you can almost guarantee will come up, in one form or another. Make sure you’ve got some good answers at the ready:

• ‘So how was your journey?’: The interviewer may initiate some small talk, with a question like this to help put you at ease. They’re looking to test your interpersonal skills too, so just relax and answer naturally. Avoid one-word answers, and don’t be afraid to ask a relevant question or two back.
• ‘Tell me about yourself’ What your interviewer is really asking here is, ‘What would you be like to work with – and what difference could you make to the organisation?’ So it’s vital to convey enthusiasm, dynamism and flexibility. Keep your answer to no longer than five minutes and avoid waffle – give a summary of your CV, not a detailed recap. Highlight why your skills would be important in the new role, and try to pick up examples that show how your skill set matches the requirements of the job description.  
• ‘Why do you want to work for us?’ Look beyond the obvious points such as the size of the company or its current bottom line. Say something different that shows you have really done your research. For example, you could point to a new product or CSR initiative or a staff project presented on its social media pages. Show how the things you mention about the company align with your own personal values too.
• ‘Tell us about your strengths’ Answering this question well is all about showing your ability to do the job, your commitment to work, and your ability to function effectively as part of a team. Choose three qualities that focus on how your strengths will benefit this specific role, and try to include a combination of hard and soft skills.   
• ‘Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?’ Think realistically about where this job can take you and how that fits with your career plans. You want to come across as ambitious, but not impatient or ruthless. Ideally you’ll find a way to show how your goals and ambitions align with those of the company.
• ‘Tell us about your hobbies and interests’ This is a good chance to show another side of yourself and to hopefully build rapport with the interviewer. Look to surface something surprising or unexpected that will provoke curiosity and help you to stand out in the interviewer’s mind.   

Claire continues: “Make sure you’re listening to the questions and tailoring your answers – you can prepare but you need to understand the nuances of the person interviewing you. You may have great intentions of what you plan to say in the interview but don’t force it if it’s not natural.”

4. Competency-based questions

This is the part of the interview where you’ll be asked detailed questions about your experience. This could well involve scenario-based questions, where you’ll be asked to give actual examples of work situations you’ve found yourself in.

• Give specific examples. For instance showing how you were flexible, adaptable under pressure, and prepared to go the extra mile to get the job done.
• Finish strong but don’t cover up difficulties. Your story will have more credibility if you don’t shy away from the challenges and setbacks you encountered. But make sure you conclude with a positive outcome that emerged as a result of your efforts, such as a satisfied client, an improved way of working, or a proven commercial benefit.  
• Don’t panic if your mind goes blank. Take a deep breath, clear your throat, and have a sip of water. Take a pause and gather yourself before you begin again.
• Ask a question yourself. By this point you’ll hopefully have built good rapport with your interviewer, so it’s perfectly appropriate to ask a relevant question or two of your own.
• Don’t worry if the interviewer probes your answer. It shows they’re interested in your story, and want you to make it even better.

5. Closing the interview

The final impressions you make are almost as important as your first ones…

• Take the opportunity to ask questions. When invited, ask two or three insightful questions that underline your interest in the role and the company. Avoid questions about salary and bonus – look instead to ask questions that reveal a motivation to add value to the company.
• Be ready to flex. You may want to tweak or swap the questions you ask, depending on how the interview has gone or what you discussed. So be ready to think on your feet.
• Stay polite and professional. There may be some more small talk towards the end of the conversation. Don’t get too relaxed – this is still part of the interview, and you want to leave a last positive impression. Shake hands firmly, maintain eye contact, and project a professional image as you head off to your next commitment.
• Don’t forget the follow-up. Always send a brief, prompt email thanking the interviewer for their time, and alerting them to any changes in your movements or contact details should they wish to come back to you.  

Contact us

To find out about current opportunities and/or to arrange an appointment with one of our specialist recruitment consultants, please contact our Dublin office on +353 (0) 1 633 4111.

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With tighter hiring deadlines and law firms wanting to hire the best talent in the market, web based interviews are on the rise.

While initially the idea of interviewing via Zoom may seem less daunting than being sat in the same room as an interviewer, it is extremely important not to be too complacent and to make the best impression you can.

We discuss some of the factors that could help you impress in your video interview.

1. How to make a good first impression?

As you aren’t going to be in the same room as your interviewer, you will need to rely on some key points to give the right impression and show your commitment to the role. Things to consider include:

Try to look into the camera rather than your image on the screen. This will help you appear as engaged as possible.

• Your username - think about what kind of first impression this will create. Does it position you as a professional?
• Your outfit - dressing in the same way as you would a face-to-face interview will not only put you in the right mind frame, it will eliminate any embarrassment should you need to stand up or move mid-interview.
• Colour - wear a dark outfit with a touch of colour - dark colours typically work best for video. We suggest wearing a dark suit and lighter coloured shirt or blouse. For men, wearing a tie is a good idea, and women should stick to a comfortably fitting blouse with a modest neckline. Excessive makeup and glittery jewellery can be distracting.

2. Where should you do the interview?

• When choosing your interview space, make sure it’s distraction free and that it mirrors a business setting. You’ll also want to check what will show up behind you on the screen, keeping to a blank or neutral background.
• Inform anyone else at home about the meeting so you are not interrupted.
• Pick the best light – before you start the interview, test the angle of your lighting to make sure there isn’t too much glare or shadow.
• Keep a notepad and pen handy so you can take brief notes if you need to, keeping them accessible but out of range of the camera.

3. How to act during the interview?

• Try to look into the camera rather than your image on the screen. This will help you appear as engaged as possible.
• Have your documents closeby – keep a printed version of your CV and any other necessary documentation handy. Keeping your email open in case you need easy access to electronic files is also recommended.
• Monitor the speed and tone of your speech – you’ll need to be prepared for a slight delay in the audio and video, so avoid moving or speaking too quickly. Try to relax – a smile will show you are confident and at ease with the video interview process.
• Technical issues – if you experience a technical glitch, maybe a weak connection or some interference, ask the interviewer to repeat the question. If the problem continues, politely mention it and redial to avoid missing any crucial communications.
• Body language – centre yourself a reasonable distance away from the camera. You’ll want to keep the upper halves of your arms showing, allowing for some free space above your head so that the interviewer can read your body language as well.

4. How should you finish the interview?

As with any face-to-face interview, make sure you find the opportunity to summarise the main reasons why you could succeed in the role. It’s also important to thank the interviewer for his or her time and ask about the next steps. Lastly, while it may seem obvious, be sure to check the camera is off before departing.

Contact us

To explore your legal recruitment needs in Dublin, contact Claire Dunwoody on +353 (0)1 633 4111 or email claire.dunwoody@robertwalters.com. 

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Preparing confident answers to common interview questions will give you the edge.

Although there is no set format that every job interview will follow, there are some questions that you can almost guarantee will be asked. Here's a list of the most common questions and a guide on how to structure your answers.

Tell me about yourself

This is usually the opening question and, as first impressions are key, one of the most important. Begin your answer with an overview of your highest qualification then running through the jobs you've held so far in your career. You can follow the same structure of your CV, giving examples of achievements and the skills you've picked up along the way. Don't go into too much detail - your interviewer will ask for you to expand on any areas where they'd like more information.

What are your strengths?

Pick the three biggest attributes that you think will get you the job and give examples of how you have used these strengths in a work situation. They could be tangible skills, such as proficiency in a particular computer language, or intangible skills such as good man-management.

What are your weaknesses?

This question is best handled by picking something that you have made positive steps to redress. For example, if your IT ability is not at the level it could be, state it as a weakness but tell the interviewer about training courses or time spent outside work hours you have used to improve your skills.

Why should we hire you? Or, what can you do for us that other candidates can't?

What makes you special and where do your major strengths lie? You should be able to find out what they are looking for from the job description. "I have a unique combination of strong technical skills and the ability to build long-term customer relationships" is a good opening sentence, which can then lead onto a more specific example of something you have done so far in your career.

What are your goals? Or, where do you see yourself in five years time?

It's best to talk about both short-term and long-term goals. Talk about the kind of job you'd eventually like to do and the various steps you will need to get there, relating this in some way back to the position you're interviewing for. Show the employer you have ambition, and that you have the determination to make the most of every job you have to get where you want to be.

Preparing confident answers to common interview questions will give you the edge.

Why do you want to work here?

The interviewer is listening for an answer that indicates you've given this some thought. If you've prepared for the interview properly, you should have a good inside knowledge of the company's values, mission statement, development plans and products. Use this information to describe how your goals and ambition matches their company ethos and how you would relish the opportunity to work for them.

What salary are you seeking?

You can prepare for this by knowing the value of someone with your skills. Try not to give any specific numbers in the heat of the moment - it could put you in a poor position when negotiating later on. Your interviewer will understand if you don't want to discuss this until you are offered the job. If they have provided a guideline salary with the job description, you could mention this and say it's around the same area you're looking for.

For further advice on answering tough interview questions, contact us to arrange an interview with one of our dedicated consultants on +353 (0) 1 633 4111.

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When under pressure to secure the right role, candidates can commit a number of common interview mistakes, due to either nerves or lack of preparation.

As business partnering skills continue to move up on hiring agendas, being able to conduct yourself in a professional and considered fashion at interview can often be just as important as demonstrating your technical abilities.

 

 

“It’s an all too common occurrence that we see extremely talented candidates let themselves down at interview, either by not addressing their interviewer in the correct manner or properly communicating their desire for the role,” says Suzanne Feeney, country manager at Robert Walters Ireland.

We suggest the top things to avoid are:

It’s an all too common occurrence that we see extremely talented candidates let themselves down at interview, either by not addressing their interviewer in the correct manner or properly communicating their desire for the role

1. Showing off

When you’re in an unfamiliar environment and under pressure to impress, it can be easy to oversell yourself in a way that comes across as disingenuous. To avoid this, ensure you reflect upon your answers and monitor your body language throughout the interview, taking time to calm your nerves and construct your answers so that you appear confident but humble.

2. Fabricating answers

If you’re hit with a curveball question, try to avoid diving straight in with an answer, taking a moment to consider all elements of the question so that you can provide an honest and considered response. Often rushing in with an answer can lead to unnecessary fabrication, despite this being intentional or not.

3. Forgetting your manners

Forgetting some of the basic social graces during an interview can steer it in the wrong direction, even from the first point of contact. We suggest for you to;

• Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early – arriving early will not only give you enough time to collect your thoughts, it will provide the breathing room you need to sign yourself in as well as navigate your way to the interview room
• Stand up to meet your interviewer – if you’re already seated when the interviewer enters the room, make sure you stand up straight to greet them, keeping their eye contact as you address them
• Firm handshake – when you first engage with your interviewer, make sure to give them a firm handshake, looking into their eyes to show your enthusiasm to be there
• Thank them for their time – before the interview comes to a complete close, make sure you secure a moment to thank your interviewer for their time and for considering your application

4. Not asking questions

Posing questions before the end of your interview is a great way to demonstrate that you’ve fully considered the position as well as your potential fit within the business. This is a step which should not be missed. Likewise, asking questions at the correct times throughout the interview will stimulate a natural flow of conversation, demonstrating your ability to think critically as well as naturally engage with stakeholders.

Contact us

To find out about current opportunities and/or to arrange an appointment with one of our specialist recruitment consultants, please contact our Dublin office on +353 (0) 1 633 4111.

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If you’ve been called for an interview, it’s because the hiring manager is interested in your CV and wants to find out more about your suitability for the role. To help you stand out in the interview process, it pays to understand the different interview styles that you may encounter and prepare for them accordingly.

Many interviews combine competency-based and behavioural questions. Behavioural interview questions are designed to show how you handled specific work situations and are used to indicate how you may perform in the future.

You will be asked to provide an example of a past situation or exercise that you have been deeply involved in, and you will need to think carefully about the answer you give, making sure that your example relates to the question asked.
Preparation is key for behavioural/competency based interviews.

Some examples of common behavioural interview questions include:

• Tell me about a project you managed that didn’t go to plan.
• Tell me about a specific situation when you managed conflicting priorities. What did you do?
• Tell me about a difficult negotiation that you had to handle.

Tips to help you shine

Robert Walters country manager, Suzanne Feeney says: "Preparation is key for behavioural/competency based interviews. Having strong examples to draw on during the interview removes the pressure of trying to think of suitable answers on the spot. While you cannot guarantee what you will be asked, following the steps below gives you the best chance to success"

1. Read the job description thoroughly, and prepare some examples of past performance that relate directly to the essential or desired skills.

2. Structure your answers so you don’t drift off track. We recommend the STAR structure: Situation - what was the context; Task – what did you need to do; Action - what steps did you take; Result - what happened? The key is to demonstrate capability by providing evidence of how you meet the selection criteria; provide specific details; and where possible, include an indicator of success or a result.

3. Practise your answers, preferably with a friend who will give you honest feedback. Most people have a tendency to rush when they are feeling under pressure and practising out loud will help you to pace yourself.

Contact us

To explore your legal recruitment needs in Dublin, contact Suzanne Feeney on +353 (0) 1 633 4111 or email suzanne.feeney@robertwalters.com. 

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You may be doing your interview from the comfort of your own home, but it’s vital to be just as professional and prepared in a remote interview as in a regular one. Our expert tips show you how…

While it’s true that technology has made interviewing easier, it has also introduced a new set of pitfalls that potential recruits need to be aware of. Whilst the idea of a remote interview, for example by Zoom, may seem more relaxed on paper, in practice the same rules and protocols apply as in any face-to-face interview. 

“It always surprises me how many people don’t treat a video interview as a normal interview,” says Suzanne Feeney, country manager of Robert Walters Ireland. “You hear of people dialling in late, or appearing in their pyjamas, or sitting in a room with no windows so their face is obscured! You need to get the basics right. Dress appropriately, be on time, make sure you have a good connection, and sit in an area where you have good natural light.”

Your equipment and connectivity

DON’T forget to check your equipment in advance. You’ll give a very poor first impression if you have to dial in at the last moment, only to discover you have faulty speakers or you’ve got to scramble to plug in the charger before the battery goes flat. Similarly, not appearing to know how to turn on your webcam is frustrating for the interviewer and will make you come across as unprofessional and under-prepared.

DON’T let your connection interrupt your flow. If your connection is dubious at home, don’t risk the screen freezing or an irritating delay which can interrupt the conversation flow. If possible, connect your laptop directly into the Ethernet port for flawless connection or, if you can’t be confident of connectivity in your own home, consider finding somewhere else more suitable to do the interview from.

DO check that everything is in proper working order ahead of the interview. Charge your laptop or tablet the night before and keep the charger plugged in for the duration, just to be on the safe side. Use discreet earphones and make sure the camera functions normally, to ensure the conversation runs smoothly without any technology-related interruptions.

“Ask a friend or relative to have a dry run with you before the big day, to make sure everything functions properly,” says Suzanne. “Check that things work – and have a look to see what’s in the background of your webcam to make sure there’s no weird poster or housemate walking past semi-naked mid-interview!”

Your setting

DON’T underestimate the importance of background. Sitting in a cluttered kitchen, lying back on your bed, or lounging in the living room with the cat snoozing in the background will come across as distracting and unprofessional.

DO ensure that there is good natural lighting and minimise background noise. Natural lighting is most flattering on camera and will ensure the interviewer has a clear view of you. If you have children or pets or share your space with others, make sure that they can’t be seen or heard in the background. The only noise should be you answering the interviewer’s questions.

Your body language

DON’T become distracted by your own image on the screen. It’s tempting to keep checking your own image in the corner of the screen to make sure you look right, but to the interviewer it will seem as if you are not looking at them.

DON’T overuse hand gestures or move around too much. While gesturing is normal body language and indicates enthusiasm on a face-to-face basis, on the small screen of a laptop it can be distracting and obscure your words.

DO check yourself briefly when the camera first turns on, but then turn your attention to the camera.“Practise looking into the camera rather than looking into the screen,” advises Suzanne. “That’s how you make eye contact on video. You will look slightly off-centre to your interviewer unless you remember to keep looking up.” Lean slightly towards the camera so that the interviewer can get the best possible view of you and your facial expressions.

DO show enthusiasm, subtly. Having your hands in view shows openness, and it’s good to smile and show interest. But speak clearly and don’t rush. It’s all too easy to unintentionally interrupt someone on Zoom than in person, so give clear signals that you have finished speaking so your interviewer knows it is their turn to speak again. You could do this by sitting back a little from the screen as you finish, marking a decent pause, or even saying something like ‘I hope that’s answered your question’ to signal the end of your speaking turn.

DO remember that a Zoom conversation is not like an ordinary conversation, and tailor your style accordingly. “On Zoom, you can get time delays and screen freezes,” says Suzanne. “It can be harder to build rapport or know whose turn it is too speak. So be doubly aware of body language and conversational cues and body language.”

”If you sense that your interviewer thinks you’ve said enough on a particular point or is keen to say something themselves, be ready to wind up promptly and explicitly hand over the conversational baton.” It can also be useful to mark an exaggerated pause before you start speaking and after you finish, so as not to cut off the interviewer and to signal clearly that it’s their turn to speak. 

Your dress

DON’T dress down. You wouldn’t wear pyjama pants or shorts with a blouse to a real-life interview, so don’t do it for your Zoom interview! Wardrobe malfunctions happen easily, and you want to be prepared if you have to move from your seated position for any reason.

DO dress as if you were interviewing in person. Dark colours are best, perhaps with a discreet pop of colour. Avoid busy patterns and sparkly, heavy or jangly jewellery, which can be a visual and/or aural distraction. 

Your options

DON’T do a Zoom interview if you don’t have to. In some cases, interviews are trending away from Zoom interviews, says Suzanne. “In my area, interviews tend to be very technical and in-depth, and Zoom can be quite a cumbersome way of handling such conversations. Phone calls or, better still, face-to-face interactions are often preferred.”

DO offer to meet face to face if that’s an option. Doing so will demonstrate enthusiasm and resourceful thinking, and if your interviewer finds Zoom interviews clunky they may thank you too. And of course, you’ll have a better chance of standing out from the crowd by appearing in person.

Ready to face a competency based interview? Read our top tips here on how to prepare and interview confidently. 

Want to find out more?

Take a look at our latest roles or get in touch with one of our consultants for more information. 

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Video interviewing isn’t new. Far from it, in fact. Hiring managers and recruitment agents alike have been using tools like this for years now. However, our industry-leading platform just makes it all that easier!

 

 

Some of you will already have experience with video interviewing software, while others may only be familiar with the more traditional face-to-face set up. One thing’s for certain though, video interviewing is here to stay. So, now’s the time to embrace them! In fact, given the current climate,it’s more likely than ever that you’ll be asked to interview online. So, here’s a quick run-down to help ensure you’re putting your best foot forward when the time comes.

The Rise of Video Interviewing

First off, it’s worth understanding why video interviewing has become so popular. Video interviews are far more flexible than a typical on-site, face-to-face. There’s no travel involved and no time off work required. Plus, with our industry-leading platform, there’s no downloads, registrations, logins or passwords to contend with either. We’ll simply send you a link and you’re good to go. This means you can complete the video interview anywhere, anytime and on any device. Plus, in many cases, one video interview can be used for several opportunities. What’s not to love?!

Types of Video Interviewing

There are a couple of different types of video interviews you might be asked to do. The most common type is a live, two-way scenario. In this case, you’ll be sent a link from one of our recruiters that you’re working with which you simply click on to enter an online ‘interview room’. There you’ll come face-to-face with the interviewer(s) via a split-screen. The process of a live interview thereafter is exactly the same as it would be in person, only you’re face-to-face in the cloud instead.

Another less common but increasingly popular method of video interview is known on our platform as a Solo Interview. Solo interviews are also accessed via a link. But the difference this time is that instead of coming face-to-face with the interviewer(s) when you enter the virtual room, you’ll be taken on an easy journey through a set number of questions.

The interview questions will appear on screen for you to answer, one by one. You’ll be able to review the finished article before submitting it for the recruiter and client to watch back. When you get to the end, you can start over if you feel you didn’t give your best answers and your original video will be recorded over. Although we do recommend keeping the attempts to a minimum as the more versions you do, the less natural you’ll become. Avoid the temptation of writing all your answers out and reading them as no matter how many times you practice appearing natural, nothing beats the real thing. You would never attend a face-to-face interview and read off answers so don’t do it here either. 

Video interviewing was designed to make the screening process faster and less onerous for everyone involved. But don’t take shortcuts in your prep. The most successful video interviews are completed by people who treat them the same as an in-person interview. They are the same, after all, just completed using a different medium.

Preparing for a Video Interview

You should prepare for a video interview in exactly the same way you would for a face-to-face interview. Prepare answers for any and all eventualities, do background research on the company and compile some questions to ask the interviewer; all the usual stuff applies. On top, there are few additional considerations to factor in:

• Set up – test that your microphone, speakers and camera are working.
• Connection - check your internet connection, close-down unnecessary programs and web pages and make sure you aren’t downloading, installing or about to run updates.
• Surroundings - be mindful of your backdrop in terms of what’s in the frame. Consider your position and check your lighting.
• Where to look – look into your camera, rather than at the interviewer. This way it’ll appear like you are looking at them.
• Do not disturb – unlike in a face-to-face interview, you’ll likely be at home or even on your lunch break at work. It seems an obvious one but make sure people around you know not to disturb you. Ideally, find a place where you feel completely at ease and where you can speak freely and comfortably without fear of interruptions or distractions.
• Appearance - just because you’re at home doesn’t mean you don’t need to look the part. You should dress exactly as you would for an in-person interview. Psychologically, you’ll feel more ready too.
• Stay focused – Because you’re not face-to-face, it can be easier to become distracted and do things you wouldn’t do in a face-to-face setting. Stay focused throughout.
• Notes – avoid reading off notes. It’s okay to refer to notes but don’t try to be sneaky about it. Equally, avoid taking excessive notes. And definitely do not try to Google during the interview, no matter how subtle you think you’re being.
• Smile and engage – a tendency on video versus face-to-face is that candidates are less focused on being engaging and less aware of ensuring their personality comes across. Avoid falling into this trap and bring as much to the video as you would if you were sitting across from the interviewer.

And Cut!

In summary, video interviews should be treated in the same way as any other interview, with a few additional considerations taken into account. You may find yourself to be a natural or it might be a little out of your comfort zone at first. But even if that is the case, it’s nothing that can’t be overcome. The best advice we can give is don’t be complacent and to get some practice in. You can do this with friends or family and can even record yourself using your phone to give yourself some critique. As with anything else, the usual combination of research and advance prep will go a long way.

Good luck!

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During an interview, although the company are assessing whether you will be a good fit for the team, you are also making sure the company and role will suit you and your lifestyle. To gain as much as you need to during your interview, it’s important to have a back pocket of interview questions for your future employer. While most of your questions may be smart and well-considered, there are some questions that are red flags for interviewers. 

To make sure your winning interview doesn’t go south, here’s the questions you should avoid asking at all costs.

What does the person do in this role?

A detailed job description is usually always provided with any job application and should outline the key responsibilities required of the successful candidate. Asking this question suggests a lack of enthusiasm and interest in the role from not having read the job description properly. If you do have require additional information about the role, ask for this prior to the interview as you want to know what you’re signing up for.

What does the company do?

Rule number one of entering any job interview is having a good background knowledge of the company behind you. Not only will asking this question show that you haven’t spent the time to do any research, it could also make the interviewer question your capability to do the job.

Do you have any other positions apart from this one?

This question displays arrogance in your abilities to do any job. It also shows a lack of interest in the role at hand.

although the company are assessing whether you will be a good fit for the team, you are also making sure the company and role will suit you and your lifestyle.

Will I have long hours?

Although it is important to find out what your working hours will be, this question could make you come off as being lazy. Instead, ask the question ‘What are the working hours for this role?’ or ‘Is there a positive work-life balance?’

How much holiday do you offer?

Any benefits you receive with the job will be discussed once you receive a job offer and not discussed in the interview. Asking questions around what benefits you will receive can undermine the interest you have in the role and might make it look like you assume you have succeeded in landing the position.

What will my salary be?

Salaries are usually displayed on the job advert to give you a rough idea as to what you can expect. Any questions surrounding the salary should be discussed at the time of the job offer and not during the interview.

Do you have an interview approaching? Head to our Interview tips hub for essential tips and advice to help you stand out.

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