Job interviews are often the deciding factor when it comes to securing a job. Therefore, how you put yourself across, answer interview questions and build a relationship with the interviewees are all exceptionally important.
As such, make sure that you are well-prepared before any interview, by thoroughly researching the company you are applying to, and prepare some key question responses and also questions for the interviewers.
Confidence also plays a key role when it comes to persuading potential employers that you are the right fit for the job, no matter whether talks happen during a face-to-face job interview or over the phone with a hiring manager.
Persuasion
Think about and prepare to present yourself in a confident manner, speak assertively about your skills and qualifications and how they align with the job on offer. If necessary practise in front of a mirror or with friends and family.
Also ensure you tailor your CV to the specific job description of the role you are applying for. Employers are looking for applications that not only stand out, but also best reflect the skills, qualifications and experience that their job advertisement is looking for.
Hannah Szymanski, market director at Robert Half, says: ‘The most common errors made by applicants on CVs themselves are usually related to spelling and grammar; making fundamental and basic errors doesn’t paint anyone in the best light and suggests that the application has been rushed and not fully proofed, which in turn will put off the majority of employers.
‘This can be easily rectified by proof reading your CV, cover letter and broader application before submitting them, or asking a third party to check it for you.
‘Many job seekers also submit “one-size-fits-all”, generic applications without tailoring them to the required specifications for the role which, again, will turn the majority of businesses off.
Align
‘Ensuring that your application aligns with the required skills for the role is a fundamental part of securing the position and shows that you have spent time on your application, rather than firing off multiple CVs to various different organisations.
‘Finally, very few people follow up on an application once it has been submitted; while this often isn’t front and centre of your mind when applying for a role, it can help to separate you from the crowd and ensure that you stand out.’
Remember that HR and recruitment teams are likely to receive dozens, if not hundreds, of applications that will likely have a lot of similarities and overlap, so sending a follow-up email or calling the relevant hiring manager will likely be seen in a positive light and will show how keen you are to secure the position.
Szymanski adds: ‘This enthusiasm is also a key trait sought by potential employers, as are qualities like attention to detail (which can be shown by ensuring you don’t include spelling and grammatical mistakes in your application) and, naturally, showing that you have the relevant experience and qualifications required for the position in question.’