Job interviews can be nerve-racking and scary. Let’s face it- just the thought of being put on the spot and asked a variety of unknown questions can send anyone’s anxiety levels through the roof. Despite the dread that interviews cause however, they are essential components of the job searching process, and we all have to experience them at least once in our lives if we want to get a job. So, how do you combat such a challenging and daunting task and give yourself the best chance of success? We have compiled our top 4 tips to help you overcome any pre-interview nerves and assist you in succeeding in your next job interview.
Preparation is the key to success: There is no such thing as over-preparing for an interview. In fact, preparation is truly the key to success. This means that before the big day, research the organisation and the role that you are being interviewed for, and have comments and questions up your sleeve about what the company does and other specific information relating the organisation. Not only will you demonstrate to the interviewer your keen interest in the role, but you will also highlight your investment in the opportunity.
Expect the unexpected: To help reduce those pesky pre-interview nerves, try to anticipate the type of questions you may be asked during the interview. Typical questions include behavioural-style problems which focus on assessing your past behaviour in key situations, as well as more basic questions to do with your strengths, weaknesses and work ethic. Although interview questions can vary greatly from interviewer to interviewer, preparing answers to a variety of questions will not only help reduce that pre-interview dread, but it will also prevent those embarrassing mental blanks!
First impressions are the best impressions: Believe it or not, humans can make a first impression of a stranger within a mere 10th of a second! That means that what you wear and how you speak and act are crucial, especially within the first moments of meeting the interviewer. But don’t panic. If you dress appropriately for the interview and greet the interviewer with a smile, firm handshake and speak confidently, you are sure to begin the interview on a good note.
Don’t take your strengths for granted: If you are like most people, most of your focus will be placed on recognising your weaknesses rather that acknowledging what you already excel in. While you should not ignore your flaws, you should also focus on understanding what your strengths are, and how they can be used to benefit the organisation you may be hired to work for. Strengths can include anything that can help set you apart from other candidates, such as your specific skillset and aptitude, work ethic and even your character. By focusing on the positives you can bring into the organisation, you will be in a better situation to sell yourself when it’s crunch time.
There is no doubt that job interviews are anxiety-provoking situations. However, there are a few tips and tricks that can really help reduce those pre-interview nerves and assist in setting you apart from the rest. These guidelines may not guarantee a job, however they are sure to assist in impressing the prospective employer, thus increasing your chances of success in your next big job interview.
by Future Force
Future Force was the best fit for me, as I wanted to get into the working field straight after finishing high school.
The best thing about it all is that Future Force offer you excellent schooling about Transport and Logistics as well as providing hands on experience.
My trainer Michael has a lot to do with where I am today, his expertise and persistence in his training has been very helpful within my work.
Since graduating in 2013, I have grown so much within the industry. I have been fortunate to trial different departments to find which best suits me.
The perfect entry point into the world of freight and logistics, extremely skilled and motivated team that really CARE about your career and ambitions, even to the point of keeping touch 5+ years after graduation.
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Emir Osmanagic, LCL Product Lead, Australia and New Zealand
When I started my traineeship, I quickly realised that I had a limited understanding of the industry and experience in an office environment. After meeting weekly with my Future Force trainer for the two year period of my traineeship, I was able to learn about the logistics industry efficiently, while maintaining a comfortable pace for me to grasp concepts strongly. Not only have I built skills within my workplace, but also organisational and life skills.
Declan Broderick, Operations all rounder
As a fresh faced teenager in 2003, I was fortunate enough to commence my traineeship under the guidance of the Future Force team. They provided me the necessary tools to be successfully employed at market leading international freight forwarder, along with comprehensive training, knowledge & skills required to succeed in my position as the national leading cargo insurance sales rep today!
Jeremy McNamara, Business Development Executive