How to prepare for (and ace) your interview

An interview is one of the most important steps in your job search journey. It provides you with the opportunity to meet with your potential employer and showcase your skills and experience, it is also where the employer will be assessing whether you are the right fit for their company. Given it is your only chance to shine, it is important that you lead with the right foot and make a lasting (positive) impression.

Preparing for your Interview

Confirming your Interview Attendance

The way you interact with the recruiter demonstrates your level of professionalism and sincerity. By confirming your attendance in writing, you are displaying a higher level of communication which is preferable in the early selection stage. It is always a good idea to confirm your attendance to the prospective employer in writing. For example, a simple email or text response such as, “Dear Jane, Thank you for the phone call today. I look forward to meeting Bob and yourself at your office on Tuesday 15th August. Warm Regards, Jess.”

Review your job description

A recruiter will be impressed by your attention to the details in the job description. By reviewing the job description you will also be able to understand the role’s key duties and responsibilities and identify any areas you may not know. Pay attention to the skills required and the skills you possess and highlight this in your interview.

Research the Company

Doing research before your interview demonstrates your seriousness about a position and you will discover if the vision, values and culture of the business aligns with you and your career goals. Considering researching the following information to better prepare you for your next interview:

1. Who the company is;

2. What the company does;

3. How long the company has been in business;

4. What the company’s vision and values are;

5. Who is the company’s customers; and

6. How does the company from their competitors?

Prepare responses to Interview Questions

The more prepared you are the more confidently you’ll respond under pressure. Prepare and practise your responses for common interview questions, such as:

1. Tell us a little about yourself

2. What is your greatest strength?

3. What is your greatest weakness?

4. What are your salary expectations?

5. How do you handle stress and pressure?

6. What is your reason for leaving your current position?

Prepare Questions for the Interviewer

Preparing some questions for your interviewer is beneficial for you. It makes you appear more interested and engaged, and shows your interviewer that you have taken the time to research the company and the role.

You should always ask a question which you genuinely would like to know, it is recommended to ask a question that will help you decide whether the position and company is right for you.

Dress to Impress: Dressing appropriately for an interview shows that you’re serious about the job and demonstrates that you respect workplace culture and the company interviewing you. When the workplace is less corporate (formal), then you may dress more relaxed, this does not mean tights and thongs. If you are unsure what to wear, it is always best to dress more professionally then be underdressed.

Timing is Critical: Being too early or late can set the wrong impression. For an in-person interview, it is best to arrive 15 minutes early as it shows you are punctual and reliable. Never present yourself earlier than 15 minutes, interviewers could potentially see this as inconsiderate for their time, therefore does not put them in the best mindset to to positively interview you. And lastly, never arrive right on time or late to your interview, this provides the impression of what you may be like at work. If you are being interviewed via Zoom, Skype, Teams or Google it is best practice to join the meeting 5 minutes before the interview time.

Waiting for the Interview to Commence: Whether you are waiting in the waiting room or in the meeting room, do not pull out your phone. You need to be ready, professional, prepared and composed.

Be respectful to everyone in the Workplace: It’s important to remember that it isn’t just the interviewer’s feedback that matters. Some interviewers and employers will ask other employees about their encounter with you. So treat everyone with equal respect to ensure you receive only positive feedback.

At Save Our Service we have a high focus on making sure you feel appreciated in your role. Our recruitment consultants have Early Childhood qualifications and experience in the sector so we understand you and will go above and beyond to help you with the next step in your career!

We have a variety of positions available. If you are looking for a position as an Early Childhood Teacher’s (ECT), Diploma-level Educator, Certificate III Educator, Educational Leader, 2IC’s, Childcare Office Administrator, Centre Cook, Cleaner or Maintenance Personnel then call us today on 1800 6333 767.

Check out our current roles http://careers.saveourservice.com.au/.

With over 25 years of experience in the early childhood Sector, SAVE OUR SERVICE aims to build, nurture and maintain a rewarding relationship with your service, by way of positive engagement and supplying quality staff to you during times of need. Our Recruitment Consultants have early education specific qualifications and up-to-date sector knowledge, this, coupled with our high-quality talent pool means you will get the right team member for your service when you need them.