Job interviews can be challenging to crack at times, no matter how experienced you are. Whether you're a recent graduate or a professional who has been working for years, how you present yourself in those crucial minutes can make or break your chances. The good news? A bit of preparation and the right mindset go a long way.
Here are 10 must-dos during an interview to help you stand out and walk out with an offer.
1. Read about the company thoroughly
Before you enter that interview room (or log into that Zoom call), it's important to know the company. Understand its mission, products, culture, recent news and industry position. This not only shows genuine interest but also helps tailor your answers to align with the company's goals.
Tip: Read the company's "About Us" page, check their LinkedIn and look up recent updates/press releases.
2. Understand the role
Don't just rely on the job description. Think about how your skills align with the key responsibilities. Be ready to explain how your experience directly matches what they're looking for-and how you can contribute tothe company's success and add unique value.
3. Dress neatly
First impressions matter. Dress appropriately for the company culture-when in doubt, it's better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. Even in virtual interviews, your attire sets the tone. So it's important to look professional during an interview.
4. Practice strong, confident body language
Nonverbal cues speak volumes. Sit upright, make eye contact, smile when appropriate, and offer a firm (but not bone-crushing) handshake. Avoid fidgeting-it can signal nervousness or lack of confidence.
5. Listen actively
Don't just wait for your turn to speak. Listen carefully to what the interviewer is asking. It shows respect, allows you to give thoughtful answers, and creates a more engaging conversation.
6. Use the STAR method for behavioural questions
For questions like "Tell me about a time you faced a challenge," use the STAR technique:
It keeps your answer structured, clear, and impactful.
7. Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team, role, company goals, or future challenges. It shows you're invested and thinking long-term. Always remember to ask questions at the end of the interview.
Avoid questions you could easily answer through basic search -ask things that show depth and curiosity.
8. Be honest and authentic
Be honest about the work you have done and about the skills you have. Don't try to be who you think they want-just be yourself (your best professional self). If you don't know something, it's okay to admit it-just express willingness to learn. Interviewers value integrity and self-awareness.
9. Highlight your soft skills
Technical skills are important, but soft skills like communication, adaptability, teamwork, and emotional intelligence often tip the scale. Share stories that reflect these qualities in action.
10. Follow-up post-interview
Always send a follow-up thank-you email within 24 hours. Express appreciation for the opportunity, briefly reinforce your interest, and maybe reference a part of the conversation that stood out. It's a small gesture that can make a big impression.
An interview isn't just about proving you can do the job-it's about showing that you're the right person for the team. With the right preparation and presence, you can turn nerves into confidence and curiosity into connection.
So, take a deep breath, trust yourself, and go crush it!
The above interview techniques can help you stand out from other candidates and secure that position. Whether you're searching for employment in London, Manchester, Brighton, Cardiff, Glasgow, Edinburgh or anywhere across United Kingdom, these interview tips will help you succeed in today's competitive UK job market.
Looking for more UK job search tips or trying to find all available jobs in one place? FastJobSearch connects candidates with job opportunities across the United Kingdom.