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Interview tips & advice
The Arthur Edward team is dedicated to helping you find your dream job.
Our early knowledge of growth plans, restructurings and coming vacancies helps us to support your developing career and longer-term aspirations.
An interview should be a pleasure not a chore for both parties.
It should be a time for you to find out more about the company and the role you have applied for, and for the interviewer to find out about you and your suitability both for the company and the role.
You should always be yourself, but make sure it’s the very best version of you and don’t let your personal standards slip. Remember that you have full control over what you say or do not say in an interview, so make sure you mention all the points you want to cover.
Listen very carefully and keep your answers on track. Do not waffle or wander from the subject of the question. Try to support information with relevant examples. It is not enough to say “I am confident”, you need to illustrate an example that proves you behave with confidence.
10 INTERVIEW TIPS TO HELP YOU SHINE
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RESEARCH SETS YOU APART
Taking time to understand the company shows genuine interest and helps calm pre-interview nerves. Look at their website, recent news, social media presence, and if possible, visit their location or explore their products. Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your curiosity about the role and company culture. Keep these on your phone or notebook to reference during the conversation.
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TIMING SHOWS RESPECT
We’ve all been there – traffic jams, delayed trains, or simply underestimating journey time. Aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early, but if delays happen, a quick call to let them know shows professionalism and consideration. Remember, punctuality demonstrates that you value their time as much as your own.
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GET THE DETAILS RIGHT
Double-check the interview location, time, and interviewer names beforehand. Save these details on your phone along with a contact number. A friendly, professional demeanour with everyone you meet – from security to reception – matters, as first impressions often extend beyond the interview room.
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BRING YOUR PROFESSIONAL TOOLKIT
Prepare a folder or portfolio with copies of your CV, examples of your work, certifications, or any materials that showcase your skills. Your smartphone can be invaluable for referencing notes, accessing your portfolio, or using the calculator if needed. Don’t forget essentials like tissues, water, and perhaps some mints for confidence. If you’ve been asked to prepare a presentation, practice it thoroughly and ensure you can deliver it smoothly within the allocated time.
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FEEL YOUR BEST ON THE DAY
A good night’s sleep and a light, nutritious meal will help you feel alert and focused. Avoid anything too spicy or heavy that might make you uncomfortable. If offered refreshments, water, tea, or coffee are safe choices that can help you feel more relaxed and engaged.
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DRESS FOR SUCCESS AND COMFORT
Smart business attire varies widely between companies these days. Research the company culture – check their website, LinkedIn, or even observe employees if you’ve visited their location. Choose something that makes you feel confident and professional while being appropriate for their environment. Pay attention to grooming details, keep fragrance subtle, and ensure everything is clean and well-fitted.
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MASTER THE FIRST IMPRESSION
A confident handshake sets a positive tone – aim for firm but not overpowering. If you’re naturally nervous about this, practice with friends or family beforehand. Remember, the interviewer wants you to succeed too.
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CONNECT THROUGH CONVERSATION
Maintaining natural eye contact and genuine engagement helps build rapport. In panel interviews, make sure to acknowledge everyone present, even if they’re not actively questioning you. These small gestures show awareness and respect for everyone in the room.
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SHOW AUTHENTIC INTEREST
Even if you have some reservations, focus on what genuinely excites you about the opportunity. Mirror the interviewer's communication style naturally, and don't hesitate to ask them about their experience with the company – people usually appreciate the chance to share their perspective.
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END ON A STRONG NOTE
Think of the interview as a mutual exploration rather than a one-way evaluation. Don’t leave important points unsaid, and feel comfortable asking if they have any concerns about your fit for the role. Close by expressing your genuine interest, thanking them for their time, and clarifying the next steps in the process.
Remember, interviews are conversations between people. The right opportunity will feel like a good match for both sides, and being authentically yourself is often the best strategy of all.
