How To Prepare For Your First Job Interview? Tips for British Students

Finding and applying for the job is easy with many UK job search websites available these days. Although, when it comes the time to face your first job interview, you might be a bit (or not a bit) scared. Your mind would probably imagine all the best and worst scenarios of what to expect. But, you just have to face it, everyone has to.

So, if a job interview still seems like a mystery to you, then this article is exactly what you need. Follow our practical tips for British students on how to prepare for a job interview and make a good first impression.

1. Read up about the company

One of the most important things to do before the interview is to do a research and study the company to find out their goals and their main focus. Take some notes or write a short essay to memorize the information. Read the company’s profile, and it will help you better understand how to give an answer to the question ‘why should we hire you?’ Think about how your skills match the company’s requirements and how your skills can help them achieve their goals. The other question to think about is a very frequently asked one ‘what do you do there?’ By answering those questions in advance, you can feel more confident on the interview, and it can increase your chances of being hired.

2. Pick your outfit wisely

‘A book is judged by its cover,’ and that is absolutely true when it comes to job interviews. What you wear on your interview does matter. Thus, make sure to choose the outfit that will fit the culture of the company. Consider if the company allows casual wear, or would it be inappropriate? After you choose the outfit, make sure it is clean and fits you well. Remember that even before you say anything, everyone will form an opinion based on your look. Thus, picking a right outfit is a crucial part of preparing for the interview.

3. Common questions

So, practicing your answers to the most common interview questions is another crucial part of the preparation process. Prepare a list of commonly asked questions and answer them. You should always be able to answer such questions as ‘tell us about your education’, ‘what are your strengths and weaknesses’, ‘what was the topic of your dissertation paper’, ‘why do you want to work with us’, ‘what are your future plans for the next 5 years’ and so on. But don’t just parrot-learn what you have to say – be relaxed when answering the questions, your answers should come out naturally. Keep your answers short and focused.

4. Punctuality

The world is not going to stop if you are ten minutes late, right? The world, no. Your career? Yes! It is a really big deal. Thus, two places you never want to be late are a job interview and the actual job. Being late to your interview means that you don’t pay attention to the important details and it proves that you don’t value other people’s time. So, you don’t really make a good impression, and your chances of getting the position will not be too high. Just remember that it is better to arrive 10-15 minutes earlier before the interview.

5. Prepare smart question

It is a two-way street, so employers expect you to ask questions as well. You may consider asking the next questions ‘can you give more information about my responsibilities,’ ‘what are the challenges your company is currently facing,’ etc. Your interviewers want to know that you are thinking seriously about working in the company.

6. Body language and good manners

Nonverbal communication is also essential. Treat every single person with respect, look the person in the eye and smile. Make sure you are polite and friendly. Practice a good handshake, sit and stay tall with your shoulders back.

Taking the time to prepare for the job interview in advance can help you secure the job offer. So, if you are about to have your first interview, then follow our tips, and you will definitely get the position! Remember that the first few moments of the interview are crucial.

Hope you find this article written by uk.edusson.com writing service helpful. We wish you good luck with your job interview!