Interview Guide
4 minutes read
When You Apply
Use an Up-to-date Resume
Research information about the company so that you understand more about their work environment, reputation, and services or products. You should have 10 skills that you are ready to list or discuss at the time of the interview.
Employers are often looking for:
Hot Tip
Make sure that your references are current and know that you are applying for jobs so that they are prepared to answer a call or email.
Before the Interview
Practice. Practice. Practice
It is important to practice answering common interview questions, but not to the point that you sound rehearsed. Think of examples from your education or previous work experience that would help the employer understand of your skills and job-readiness.
Hot Tip
It’s always a great idea to let those close to you know you’re interviewing. It will help minimize interruptions!
Plan Ahead for Travel & Tech
Plan your route if you are driving or taking public transit to the interview. Leave yourself extra time and don’t forget to check the weather.
Interviewing from home? Prepare a clean, bright, and professional space and test your camera and microphone.
Getting Dressed
Pick out your clothes
Plan your outfit according to the weather and position you are applying for. Ironing or steaming your clothes and laying out your items the night before can be a time and stress saver!
Almost There…
Fuelled & ready to go
A little breakfast, coffee, or tea can go a long way when it comes to keeping you fuelled, present, and at your best.
Arrive & be kind
Hopefully your planning has worked and you arrive 10-15 minutes early. Head into the building and greet staff and other candidates that you have the chance to interact with while you wait. Just a simple nod or “hello” will do!
Don’t spend too much time on your phone, or take personal calls while waiting.
Hot Tip
Minimize distractions by ensuring your cellphone is turned off or set to silent or airplane mode before the interview!
Starting the Interview
Greetings
Say hello and shake hands, if you are comfortable! If not, don’t stress. Not everyone is shaking hands post-pandemic.
Getting seated
Take a second to get comfortable in the space. Raise or lower your seat if you need to and find an appropriate place for your handbag and coat.
Feel free to make a comment about the weather, or ask about the interviewers’ day if it’s taking you a second to get settled. Some small talk is appreciated.
Answering Questions
Give relevant examples
Give examples that highlight your skills and how they are relevant to the job you are applying for and don’t be shy about pulling from multiple experiences, as long as they are listed on your resume.
Bring it back to the job
When an interviewer asks about your skills, interests, or experience, be sure to circle back and share why they are relevant to tasks and responsibilities you will be expected to tackle if the successful candidate.
Hot Tip
Before you answer a question, ask yourself if what you have to say is…
True
Honest
Inspiring
Kind
For behavioural-focused questions, you can break down your answer using the “Star” method.
Situation
Tast
Action
Result
Here are some sample questions:
Hot Tip
Never speak poorly of a previous employer. When asked about your previous employer or work experience, give context, describe your successes or contributions, and how you are not better prepared to work for this new company.
Asking Questions
It is always great to ask questions of the interviewer when provided the opportunity.
Asking questions can help you:
Asking questions can help the interviewer:
Follow Up
Send your interviewer a note thanking them for the interview and indicate that you’re happy to follow-up on anything they require.
Notify any references of your interview should they confirm that references will be contacted.