No one likes an interview but for the vast population it’s the process for finding (& securing) that next great job. As someone that has had a fair amount of interviews in her time, I thought I would take the opportunity to share with you all my top five tips to nail an interview.

1. Timing 

Most importantly, know where your interview is and check how long it will take to get there. There is nothing worse than getting excessively flustered before you’re due to sit in front of a prospective new employer because you get lost, get the wrong bus or underestimate how long the journey is, so do your research beforehand so you can plan accordingly.

Five minutes on Google Maps is all it takes, even if you have a sat nav, I would still have the route in your head for back up. Admittedly, sometimes being late just cannot be helped so make sure you have the number of the place to hand so you can call ahead to let them know you’re running a bit behind schedule.

2. Do your research

I cannot stress how bad, not to mention awkward, it will look when you are asked about the company you’re interviewing for and you know nothing about them. How can they possibly be reassured that you want the job if you haven’t invested any time in getting some facts about them?

How can you be sure you want to work for the company if you haven’t read up and done some investigation into their culture, their values, who their customers are? It doesn’t need to be a lot but some basic knowledge on how long the company has been running, roughly how many people they employ (if they’re a large organisation), and an idea of some of the products/services they make or sell (aka. what they do) should be sufficient.

3. Dress the part

Before you open your mouth, you will be judged on your appearance; first impressions are everything. I hate to say that but it really is, how someone presents themselves speaks volumes. For me, I have never worn a full, proper suit to an interview but I have always worn a suit jacket as this will always formalise an outfit.

Here is what I wore to my last interview (just imagine it with a black suit jacket over the top).

It’s formal, smart, but the yellow top adds a fun element and I feel speaks a lot about me. It shows I can look the part without being too serious and in my line of work, this is perfectly fine. I also feel it’s quite young and modern which is important for me to portray.

However, you can never go wrong with a suit and if you’re interviewing at a large corporate organisation, a suit is a must but ultimately it’s your call. As long as you’re comfortable and can look the part, I don’t think you can go wrong. It also might be worth mentioning to keep your makeup fresh and simple but don’t be afraid of a bold lip if that’s your thing!

4. Be confident

Know who you are, what you can offer and why you want the role. You need to sell yourself so be proud of your achievements to date and go for it!

5. Relax!

Nerves are normal and those interviewing you will know that and expect it. For the most part, nerves show that you care about the role being offered and that you want to make a good impression.

As long as you have arrived in good time, done your research, look presentable and feel confident in your abilities, you’ll be fine. A few deep breaths work wonders and a glass of water always buys you some thinking time between questions.

However, if you really do suffer with nerves, I strongly recommend Bach Rescue Remedy -a couple of drops on your tongue beforehand can do wonders with helping you feel calm and reassured.

Beyond those five tips, the rest is up to you! Good luck!

So, with all the above being said, I think it is time for me to let you guys know that I have been successful in securing a new job! I have been sat on this news for a little while but I am extremely excited (not to mention nervous) about my new role which begins in a little over a week. Eek!

Without going into too much detail, I am going to be a Content Marketing Executive so finally a role that will really utilise my skills and enjoyment for the written word. Wish me luck!

Until next time x