Category: Interview Advice

As a parent, you want to see your child flourish after university and land a good graduate job. One that matches their skills and interests, offers them career progression and compensates them with a competitive salary. As interviews are one of the most daunting elements of the graduate job search, you likely want to support your child as they go through them. One way to do this is to host mock interviews with them. This post shares tips and advice on how to help your son or daughter practice for their upcoming graduate interviews. 

Why your son/daughter must practice for interviews not just prepare

It’s crucial to distinguish between “preparing” for an interview and “practising” for one. 

Preparation involves gathering information about the company, understanding the role, and aligning one’s qualifications and experiences with the job requirements.

Practising, on the other hand, is about honing the delivery of this information, refining communication skills, and building confidence.

Even though both are integral to the process, the importance of practice cannot be overstated.

It really does make the difference in today’s competitive graduate job market, making your child stand out as a graduate who not only possesses the skills required for the role but as a candidate who can articulate their ideas well, structure their thoughts in a logical manner and relay important information professionally. 

Achieving this requires practice.

If your son or daughter attended stage school previously, they may already have a leg up when it comes to presenting and speaking in front of people and might just need to polish their pitch. Alternatively, your son or daughter might be very shy/anxious about interviewing and need more rigorous training. Whichever boat they are in we can support you in helping them to develop life-long interview confidence with our graduate interview practice. 

How to Host Practice Interviews at Home

Hosting practice interviews at home can be an invaluable tool in your child’s job search arsenal. 

Here’s some ideas on how to go about it:

1: Set the Scene

Create an environment at home that mimics a real interview as closely as possible. Choose a quiet, formal setting free from distractions. Setting up a table and chairs in a “panel” format can help simulate the actual experience. Perhaps the dining room/area or the home office is the perfect space for this. 

2: Research before hosting the mock graduate interview

Before setting up a mock graduate interview with your son/ daughter prepare some questions to ask them. 

If they do not have an imminent interview coming up, pick a selection of competency-based questions that will prompt them to discuss their key employability skills such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving. 

Don’t shy away from tough or unexpected questions; these often reveal how well your son or daughter can think on their feet. 

Remember to ask the common “tell me about yourself” question as this comes up in almost all interviews so having a well-polished and rehearsed answer for this will be beneficial for your graduate. 

Do some research on the field they are interested in going into and throw in some questions that test their industry knowledge such as “Tell me about a recent news story related to X industry that has caught your attention”. Often graduates are asked this to help recruiters distinguish between graduates with a genuine interest in the field from graduates who just want a job. 

3: Feedback and Fine-tuning 

At the end of the mock interview at home with your child, be sure to give them lots of feedback on how they did, what they did well and how they can improve. 

Provide constructive feedback on their responses, body language, and overall demeanour. 

Highlight strengths and pinpoint areas for improvement. Discuss how to weave in examples of their achievements that demonstrate relevant skills and qualities.

Your son/daughter should be answering competency-based interview questions using the STAR framework, by giving an overview of the situation, describing the task, explaining the actions they took, and elaborating on the results they achieved. Mastering this framework will enable them to ace any competency-based question. 

4: Simulate Different Interview Formats

Many companies now use a variety of interview formats when hiring graduates, including behavioural interviews, case studies, and even group interviews. Note that this may vary depending on the type of graduate role your son or daughter is going for. 

Try to prepare for these different scenarios by simulating them as best as you can. For instance, you could present a business problem and ask your child to walk you through their thought process in solving it.

5: Practice, Practice, Practice 

Repetition is key to becoming comfortable and confident. Conduct multiple practice sessions, focusing on different areas each time. 

This repetition will help cement their responses and improve their fluency in delivering them. Try to space out the sessions so that the experience does not become too overwhelming. 

6: Encourage Self-Reflection

After each practice session, encourage your child to reflect on their performance. Self-awareness is a crucial skill in personal and professional development.

Discuss what they felt went well and what could be improved, reinforcing the idea that every interview is a learning opportunity. It is ok to make mistakes as long as they are also making progress. 

7: Incorporate Professional Feedback

If possible, consider involving a professional in your child’s field of interest to conduct a mock interview. This can provide valuable insights and feedback from someone who knows exactly what employers are looking for.

Here at Graduate Coach, we have a track record of helping over 5000 students and graduates land their dream jobs. 

8: Stay Positive and Supportive

Finally, ensure that you provide encouragement and support throughout this process. 

The last thing you want to do is create a negative experience for your child during these mock graduate interview sessions. Be careful not to give feedback in a way that puts them down or makes them defensive. 

Job hunting can be a stressful time, and maintaining a positive outlook is essential for your child’s confidence and resilience.

Conclusion

Most graduates believe that they need to memorise answers to prepare for interviews. However, this strategy rarely leads to success because as soon as they are asked a question, they did not prepare for, it throws them off and they get flustered. A fail-proof strategy is to refine your interview technique and refine your ability to use frameworks. This requires practice. As a supportive parent, you can help your son or daughter to practise for their graduate job interviews so that they build the life-long skill of being interview-competent. If your son or daughter is consistently failing interviews, or not getting invited to interviews, get in touch with us. We can help them to land their dream graduate role and excel in their early careers.

Featured image by Christina Morillo from Pexels

In the wake of a crucial job interview, a wave of anxious anticipation invariably follows. This period of waiting, fraught with uncertainty, requires not just patience but also a constructive, practical approach to alleviate stress and maintain positivity.

In this light, we offer practical tips to effectively navigate through this tense interval, to help you to feel a sense of calm and preparedness for the outcome, whatever it might be.

1. Maintain a Positive but Realistic Outlook

Keep Hope Alive but Stay Grounded. 

It’s vital to nurture hope and maintain a positive mindset during the waiting period. Engage in affirmations and visualise a successful outcome to instil confidence. However, it’s equally important to brace for any eventuality. Acknowledging that not every opportunity will culminate in success aids in tempering expectations, thereby reducing potential disappointment if things don’t pan out as envisioned.

2. Divert Your Focus with Productive Activities

Stay Busy and Engaged.

Idle time is a breeding ground for anxiety. To counter this, immerse yourself in activities that are both engaging and fulfilling. Whether it’s pursuing a hobby, volunteering, or focusing on your current job (if applicable), staying busy is pivotal. This approach not only helps in keeping stress at bay but also contributes positively to your personal and professional development.

3. Establish a Support Network

Connect with Friends and Family.

Social support is indispensable during periods of uncertainty. Sharing your anxieties and hopes with trusted friends and family members can provide much-needed relief. These individuals offer not just a sympathetic ear but also valuable perspectives and advice that you might have overlooked. Engage with your support network regularly but avoid obsessing over the interview during these interactions.

4. Limit the Frequency of Follow-ups

Be Patient and Professional. 

While it’s reasonable to seek updates on the interview outcome, excessive follow-ups can be perceived as desperation, potentially harming your prospects. Allow a reasonable time to elapse—typically a week or two—before politely inquiring about the status of your application. Demonstrating patience and understanding of the employer’s timeline reflects professionalism and respect for their process.

5. Prepare for the Next Opportunity

Continuous Improvement. 

Regardless of the interview’s outcome, view every opportunity as a learning experience. Solicit feedback if possible and reflect on your performance to identify areas for improvement. In doing so, you not only enhance your skills and preparedness for future interviews but also constructively channel your nervous energy during the waiting period.

6. Practice Mindfulness and Stress Reduction Techniques

Fostering Inner Calm.

Incorporating mindfulness practices and stress reduction techniques into your daily routine can be particularly beneficial during this nerve-wracking time.

Meditation, yoga, or even simple breathing exercises can significantly alleviate anxiety, helping you maintain a clear and focused mind. This calm and collected mindset will not only aid you in the waiting period but also serve you well in your professional life, enhancing your overall mental resilience.

7. Engage in Personal Development

Invest in Yourself.

While you wait for the outcome, see this time as an opportunity to invest in your personal and professional development. Consider enrolling in a short course or attending workshops and seminars related to your field. Reading industry-relevant books or even participating in networking events can also significantly bolster your knowledge and connections in the sector, preparing you further for the role you hope to secure or for future opportunities.

8. Avoid Overanalysing the Interview

Reflect Without Obsessing.

It’s natural to replay the interview in your mind, scrutinising every response and gesture. While reflection is constructive, excessive rumination can lead to unnecessary stress and self-doubt. Remember that interviews are as much about gauging personal fit and rapport as they are about assessing skills and qualifications. What may seem like a mistake to you could be perceived differently by the interviewer. Therefore, engage in reflection judiciously, focusing on learning rather than criticising yourself.

9. Stay Open to Other Opportunities

Keep Your Options Open.

Limiting yourself to the outcome of one interview can amplify stress and disappointment if it doesn’t favour you. Keep an eye open for other job listings and opportunities; continue to submit applications and attend interviews. This approach not only increases your chances of finding a suitable position but also alleviates the pressure associated with waiting for the outcome of a single interview. 

10. Practice Gratitude and Positive Affirmation

Nurturing a Positive Mindset.

Lastly, engage in practices that promote a positive and grateful mindset. Regularly acknowledging and reflecting on the positive aspects of your life and career can provide a much-needed perspective and balance during this uncertain period. Practising gratitude can also foster a sense of contentment and well-being, creating a positive cycle of thoughts and emotions that support mental health and resilience during the waiting phase.

11. Maintain Healthy Habits

Prioritise Wellness.

It’s easy to neglect your health under stress, but maintaining a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, and engaging in regular exercise are crucial. These healthy habits contribute positively to your mental health, providing the energy and clarity needed to cope with the stress of awaiting your interview outcome. Consider this waiting period as an opportunity to commit to or re-establish a healthy routine that supports both your body and mind.

12. Engage in Self-reflection and Journaling

Understanding Yourself Better.

Journaling can be a therapeutic way of understanding and processing your thoughts and emotions during this anxious time. Putting your hopes, fears, and expectations down on paper can provide you with valuable insights into your professional desires and career goals, helping you understand what truly matters to you. It’s a self-reflection tool that not only helps relieve anxiety but also aids in planning your next career moves with greater self-awareness and clarity.

13. Set Short-term Goals and Celebrate Small Wins

Acknowledge Every Achievement.

While waiting for the interview results, set achievable short-term goals unrelated to the job application. 

These could be as simple as completing a book, mastering a new skill, or improving your physical fitness.

Celebrating these small wins creates a sense of accomplishment and control, providing much-needed positivity and confidence. Acknowledging every achievement, no matter how minor, is crucial for maintaining high spirits during uncertain times.

14. Limit Exposure to Stressful Information and Negative Influences

Guard Your Mental Space.

In the age of constant digital connectivity, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by a barrage of information, much of which may heighten your anxiety. Limit your exposure to news or social media platforms that might induce stress or comparison with peers.

Engage in activities and consume content that uplifts and inspires rather than adds to your stress levels. Being mindful of where you direct your attention can greatly influence your mental and emotional well-being.

15. Seek Professional Advice and Counseling If Necessary

Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Help.

If the anxiety of waiting becomes unbearable or begins to adversely affect your daily life, consider seeking help from career counsellors or mental health professionals. Sometimes, speaking to an expert can provide you with the tools and strategies to cope with stress more effectively, offering a new perspective on your situation. Remember, reaching out for professional advice is not a sign of weakness but a proactive step towards safeguarding your mental health.

Conclusion

The period following a job interview, laden with anticipation and anxiety, is undeniably challenging. However, by adopting a proactive and positive approach, you can not only mitigate stress but also lay the groundwork for future success, irrespective of the immediate outcome. Engage in constructive activities, lean on your support network, maintain professional communication with the employer, and continuously strive for personal and professional development. With these practical tips in hand, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the anxious wait that follows the job interview, emerging stronger and wiser on the other side.

Featured image by MART PRODUCTION from Pexels

Interviews can be nerve-wracking for everyone, even more so if you’re navigating them in a language that isn’t your native tongue. However, your language skills can also be an asset, showcasing your dedication, adaptability, and global perspective. Furthermore, some jobs will ask for a second or third language as one of the requirements or preferred attributes. 

So, how do you turn this potential challenge into a strength? In this post, we’ll show you how: 

1: As with all interviews, Preparation is Key!

The more you’re prepared, the more confident you’ll feel. Here are some interview tips that will help you to succeed in an interview in English if English is not your first language: 

• Focus on Clear Communication:
  While it’s important to express your thoughts comprehensively, prioritise clarity over verbosity. Use short, concise sentences to convey your points effectively.
  
  Speak slowly, and focus on giving a structured answer, so that your interviewer can capture the important points that you make. It is a good idea to use the STAR method to help you to structure your answers. 

• Prepare Industry-Specific Vocabulary:
  Depending on the role, familiarise yourself with industry-specific jargon and terminology. This will help you sound knowledgeable and confident during the interview.
  
  For example, if you are applying for a job related to software development, make sure you are aware of terminology such as agile, scrum and sprint. 

• Highlight Language Skills Relevant to the Role:
  If the job requires certain language skills (e.g., business communication), discuss your experiences and achievements using those skills to demonstrate your proficiency.

• Practice Pronunciation of Key Words:
  Identify keywords or phrases specific to your field and practice their pronunciation. This will enhance your ability to communicate your expertise fluently. If there are any commonly used English words that you struggle to pronounce, practice their pronunciation before the interview. 

• Use Everyday Conversational Phrases:
  Incorporate common conversational phrases into your responses, such as “That’s a good point,” “I see what you mean,” or “To be honest.” This showcases your language versatility. These will also help you to develop rapport with your interviewer. 

• Adapt to Accents:
  Be prepared for different accents from interviewers. If you’re unsure about something, politely ask them to repeat or rephrase the question.

• Prepare for Technical Questions:
  If the role requires technical knowledge, ensure you’re comfortable discussing technical concepts in English. Translate relevant terms beforehand.

• Minimise Use of Fillers:
  Try to minimise the use of fillers like “uh,” “um,” or “you know.” Pausing briefly to gather your thoughts sounds more confident.

• Cultural Awareness in Responses:
  Be aware that certain cultural norms and behaviours might be different in English-speaking countries. Tailor your responses to align with these expectations.

• Listen Actively to the interview questions:
  During the interview, ensure you’re actively listening to the interviewer’s questions. This will help you provide relevant and accurate responses.

• Practice with Native Speakers:
  If possible, engage in language exchange or conversation practice with native English speakers to refine your spoken communication skills. Get some interview coaching with an experienced career coach. 

• Review Interviews for Improvement:
  If you record mock interviews or actual interviews, review them to identify areas for improvement, such as pronunciation, fluency, or sentence structure.

2: Practice Listening

Understanding the interviewer is equally important as speaking. Enhancing your listening skills is crucial for effective communication.

• Watch English Shows/Movies: This will not only improve your listening skills but will also familiarise you with accents and colloquial phrases.

• Interactive Tools: Platforms like BBC Learning English offer resources and exercises to practice both listening and speaking.
  
• Podcasts: Listen to English-language podcasts on topics that interest you. Podcasts cover a wide range of subjects and often include natural conversations that can help you tune your ear to real-life dialogue. Even better, listen to podcasts related to job searches and interviews. 

• Language Learning Apps: Many language learning apps offer listening exercises and dialogues. Utilise these resources to enhance your comprehension skills.
• YouTube Videos: Watch YouTube videos on various subjects. Many content creators speak naturally, which exposes you to authentic language usage.
  
• Transcription Practice: Listen to short audio clips and try to transcribe what you hear. Compare your transcription with the original to identify areas for improvement.

3: Slow Down

It’s better to speak slowly and clearly than to rush and make errors.

• Pause and Think: Give yourself a moment to frame your thoughts. This can prevent misunderstandings and show that you’re thoughtful in your responses.

• Clarify: If you don’t understand a question, it’s okay to ask the interviewer to repeat or rephrase. They’ll appreciate your dedication to providing accurate answers. Don’t assume that the interviewer will expect you to understand the question the first time. 

• Use Pauses Strategically: Incorporate deliberate pauses into your speech. This not only gives you time to collect your thoughts but also helps the interviewer process what you’re saying more easily.

• Use Pauses for Emphasis: Pause slightly before or after key points. This can draw attention to important information and allow the interviewer to absorb your response more effectively.

• Focus on Articulation: Emphasise each word, and don’t be afraid to slightly over-enunciate to ensure your words are clearly understood.

• Practice Diction: Work on your diction and pronunciation. Practice challenging words or sounds to improve your clarity.

• Use Stress and Intonation: Proper use of stress and intonation can make your speech more engaging and facilitate understanding. Experiment with varying your pitch and stress patterns.

4: Showcase Your Multilingual Advantage

Being multilingual is a strength!

Embracing your multilingual advantage can truly set you apart in today’s global landscape. Imagine being part of a world where communication transcends borders and bridges cultures. In an ever-connected world, companies are recognising the value of having team members who bring diverse linguistic perspectives to the table. 

Being fluent in multiple languages isn’t just about words; it’s about the ability to connect deeply with a wider array of people and communities.

Your multilingual prowess isn’t just a skill – it’s an asset that enriches teams and strengthens the global fabric of modern workplaces. 

So, don’t hesitate to showcase this unique strength, highlighting how your language proficiency enhances your ability to thrive in today’s interconnected professional landscape.

5: Be Honest, it’s ok to seek clarification!

We have touched upon this above, however, this point is so important that it is worth mentioning it again. 

If there are certain nuances or idiomatic expressions you’re unfamiliar with, be open about it.

Positive Framing: Instead of saying, “I don’t know English very well,” you could say, “English is my second language, and I’m continually working to improve it.”

Seeking clarification will not only allow you to provide a better quality answer, it will also show the interviewer that you do not take action without clarity and will speak up if you are not sure about something. This is an important attribute in the workplace. 

6: Engage in Mock Interviews

Practice makes perfect.

Engaging in mock interviews is a powerful tool on your journey to interview success, and as they say, practice truly does make perfect. Consider this an opportunity to fine-tune your interview skills in an environment that encourages growth.

Language Exchange: Seek out a language partner who’s proficient in English and eager to help. Role-playing mock interviews with them allows you to simulate real interview scenarios. This kind of practice helps you adapt to conversing in English, building fluency and confidence along the way.

Feedback Matters: After each practice session, don’t hesitate to ask for feedback. Your partner’s insights are invaluable; they can identify areas where your language might need polishing and where your answers could be more impactful. Constructive criticism helps shape your approach and helps you evolve with every practice round.

7: Focus on Non-Verbal Communication

A significant part of communication is non-verbal.

Non-verbal communication can greatly enhance your interview presence. It’s the unspoken language that speaks volumes.

Body Language: Remember, your body speaks too. Maintain eye contact – it shows you’re engaged and attentive. A firm handshake reflects confidence and professionalism. When seated, sit upright – it exudes a sense of purpose and assurance.

Active Listening: Non-verbal cues go both ways. Show your active engagement through subtle nods. These small gestures indicate your understanding and agreement. Demonstrating genuine interest through your facial expressions can help bridge any potential gaps that might arise due to language differences.

8. Stay Calm and Positive

Your attitude can make a difference.

Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing or visualisation can help calm pre-interview jitters.

Positive Affirmation: Remember, you were shortlisted for an interview because of your skills and experiences. Your linguistic background is just one aspect of your multifaceted potential.

Conclusion: Acing an Interview When English Isn’t Your First Language

Mastering an interview in a non-native language is a commendable feat, one that demonstrates perseverance and adaptability. Celebrate this skill, prepare diligently, and approach the process with confidence. Your linguistic journey is a testament to your resilience and dedication, qualities any employer would value.

Featured image by RDNE Stock project from Pexels

Has your son or daughter been trying to get a job since graduating from university? 

Have they been sending out application after application without hearing back? 

If so, this experience is likely getting them down and making you feel a bit worried or concerned about their graduate job prospects. 

Here are some tips and ways you can guide your son or daughter if they are in this situation. 

1: Their CV doesn’t Demonstrate their Achievements

The first step towards interview success begins with a well-crafted CV. Encourage your child to tailor their application materials to each job they apply for. 

Emphasise the importance of showcasing key employability skills, qualifications, and experiences to make a strong first impression. 

Many fresh graduates make the mistake of focusing too much on their education on their CV. Whilst many graduate roles will have an entry requirement of a 2:1 or a 2:2, grades won’t make your child stand out. Employers are much more interested in gauging candidates’ skills and competency-based on their achievements in work settings. 

Additionally, ensure that their CV is ATS compliant as many companies use ATS software to screen CVs. 

2: They do not have enough Work Experience 

In today’s competitive job market, having experience is not just nice to have, it’s essential. 

Suggest that your child seeks internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities related to their field of interest. This not only enhances their skills but also makes their application stand out.

If your son or daughter has already finished university and doesn’t have any work experience, they may wish to do an internship or work experience placement first to build up their CV before applying again for full-time graduate jobs. 

3: They do not know what Job is Right for Them 

Many graduates leave university without knowing what job is right for them. Under the pressure of needing to get a job after university, graduates begin applying for jobs despite not really knowing exactly what they want to do and why.

The problem with applying for jobs willy-nilly is that graduate recruiters can tell. Typically, if you do not have a genuine interest in a particular job that you’ve applied for, the application will be generic rather than tailored and it won’t stand out.

Encourage your son or daughter to first reflect on their interests and skills before applying for jobs after university. 

Here at Graduate Coach, our coaching programme is designed to help students and graduates to discover their career paths and ultimately land their dream graduate position. If your son or daughter is struggling to get a job, we can help them. 

4: They are not being proactive about networking 

Remind your child of the value of networking. 

Encourage them to attend job fairs, and industry events, and connect with professionals in their desired fields. Additionally, they could get in touch with alumni. 

Sometimes, personal connections can open doors to interview opportunities that might not be advertised publicly.

If you have any professional connections, make an introduction. This could lead to your son or daughter getting invited to more interviews. 

5: They need to Craft Compelling Applications

This ties in with point 3. Graduates must know what job is right for them, and then tailor every aspect of their application to that particular role. 

A tailored application shows genuine interest and effort. Graduate recruiters are not only looking for graduates that can do the job, they are also looking for graduates that want the job for genuine reasons. This is because graduate programmes are designed to help graduates to hone their skills, but you cannot train someone to be enthusiastic and passionate about something. 

Ask your son or daughter if they would like you to review their CV and cover letter before they send out an application. 

6: They have not yet started leveraging their professional Online Presence

In the digital age, an online presence matters. 

Help your child review their social media profiles to ensure they project a positive and professional image.

Many employers research candidates online, so a clean digital footprint can make a significant difference.

Once their LinkedIn profile has been optimised, they can proactively contact recruiters themselves.

7: They Need to focus on Skill Development and Training

Identify any skills that are in high demand in their chosen industry. 

Many graduates make the mistake of making career decisions solely on the idea of a role or something related to their degree in some way. However, they forget they forget that the job market is driven by supply and demand. 

Currently, there is a huge demand for technical and digital skills. 

Encourage your child to invest time in acquiring these skills, either through online courses, workshops, or certifications. A robust skill set can boost their chances of getting noticed.

This leads us to our next point nicely. 

8: They are not considering Job Market Dynamics

Sometimes, external factors play a role. Research the job market trends in your child’s chosen field. If the industry is experiencing a slowdown, it might take longer to secure interviews. Encourage them to stay persistent and flexible.

9: Encourage them to start preparing for Interviews in Advance

Securing interviews is one thing; acing them is another. 

Offer to conduct mock interviews and provide constructive feedback.

Focus on communication, problem-solving, and presentation skills to help them feel confident when facing interview panels. 

Here at Graduate Coach, we offer graduate interview coaching to help students and graduates to become interview confident, and excel in any interview, not just in their early career but throughout their entire career. 

Conclusion

As parents, we play an invaluable role in supporting our sons and daughters as they transition from their time in education to the workplace. This support is greatly appreciated as they navigate the challenges of the graduate job search. By focusing on CV building, networking, application refinement, skill development, and interview preparation, we can guide and empower our children to unlock the doors to interview opportunities. Remember, every step in the process is a learning experience, and with dedication and perseverance, success is just around the corner. Also, remember to take a supportive role whilst allowing your child to take the lead.

Featured image by Edmond Dantès from Pexels

As your son or daughter takes their first steps towards entering the graduate job market, you may be wondering how you can best support them during the crucial job interview phase. 

Job interviews can be particularly daunting for graduates, and if your son or daughter is neurodiverse, they may have some additional challenges to navigate during their graduate job search. 

However, with support, the right resources and encouragement, they can showcase their talents and secure great opportunities.

In this blog post, we will explore some valuable tips on how you can help your neurodiverse son or daughter to shine in their graduate job interviews.

1. Understand Their Unique Needs

If your child was diagnosed with a neurodiverse condition such as Dyslexia, Autism or ADHD many years ago, you may already be familiar with the challenges they face and perhaps some of the ways that they overcome some of their challenges. Take some time to ensure that you understand what challenges they may face during the graduate job search. This could be difficulty with completing numerical tests, or difficulty concentrating during interviews. Have a conversation with your son or daughter to gain a deeper understanding of what they feel they may struggle with and what they may have struggled with in the past. 

If your son or daughter has been recently diagnosed with a neurodiverse condition or was diagnosed during their time at university,  you both may need to find out more about their condition and identify some of the areas where they struggle and where they may struggle in interviews. Speaking with your GP or Psychiatrist may be useful here. 

2. Help them with their Graduate Interview Preparation

The graduate job market is incredibly competitive, therefore, interviews are an important part of the graduate recruitment process. They give graduates the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and to distinguish themselves from the thousands of other graduates with a good degree. 

Depending on your son or daughter’s condition, they may experience some challenges during the interview process. As we mention later in the post, there are accommodations that your son or daughter can request to help them to perform well in interviews. In addition to these accommodations, preparing well for the interview can also help your son or daughter to become interview confident. 

Work together to prepare thoroughly for the interviews. Help your son or daughter to research the company, The more prepared they feel, the more confident they will be during the actual interview. 

3. Use Role-Play to Practice Interview Techniques 

Generally, graduates will spend on average 36 minutes preparing for an interview. However, as well as preparing for the interview in terms of researching the company, preparing their clothes and route etc, it is important to practice answering interview questions aloud in a concise and structured format. This may be particularly beneficial for neurodiverse graduates. 

Engage in role-playing exercises where you take on the role of the interviewer. Practice asking competency-based questions that are commonly asked during interviews, allowing your son or daughter to respond and refine their answers. This practice will boost their confidence and improve their communication skills. 

Ensure that your son or daughter is familiar with the STAR framework, and other common interview frameworks. Knowing how and when to apply interview frameworks will prevent your son or daughter from simply memorising answers to interview questions in the hope that they will be asked, and instead empowers them to be able to answer any question that is asked in a clear and concise manner that will impress the interviewer and demonstrate their communication skills. 

4. Support their decision to disclose their condition or not and encourage Self-Advocacy 

Under section 60 of the Equality Act 2010, it’s important to note that employers are prohibited from inquiring about your son or daughter’s disability or any specific details related to it. 

Nonetheless, there are certain situations where asking about disability or neurodiversity might be relevant, such as when an employer is implementing a positive action program or when disability is a necessary qualification for the job. 

Remind your son or daughter that, whether or not they choose to disclose information about their neurodiversity or disability is entirely up to them and should not affect their chances during the hiring process.

If they do decide to disclose their condition to their prospective employer, encourage them to advocate for themselves and communicate any necessary accommodations they may require during the interview. Remind them that disclosing is a personal choice, but it can lead to a more supportive and inclusive interview experience

It’s also essential to emphasise that employers should actively inquire about any adjustments they may require during the various stages of the recruitment process. Their comfort and success during this process are of utmost importance, and employers are encouraged to make the necessary accommodations to ensure a fair and inclusive experience.

5. Highlighting Strengths and Achievements 

Hiring a diverse workforce, including neurodiverse employees, brings about a multitude of benefits to any organisation. 

Firstly, diverse teams foster a wide range of perspectives and ideas, leading to enhanced creativity and innovation. 

Neurodiverse individuals often possess unique strengths in problem-solving and thinking outside the box, contributing to a more adaptable and resilient team.

By supporting the full potential of neurodiverse employees and embracing diversity as a whole, organisations can attain a competitive advantage and achieve greater success in today’s dynamic and globalised business landscape.

With this said, help your graduate identify and articulate their unique strengths and achievements. Emphasise the value they can bring to the company and encourage them to showcase their skills confidently during the interview.

6. Consider Graduate Coaching

Here at Graduate Coach, we have helped 5000+ students and graduates to nail their interviews and to land great jobs. Many of these students and graduates have been neurodiverse. 

We can help your son or daughter to identify their skills and interests, create a strong graduate CV, equip them with expert interview techniques and offer them continued mentoring and support as they navigate their early career. 

If you are interested in finding out more about how we can help your son or daughter, get in touch with us via our contact form. 

7. Post-Interview Support

Regardless of the outcome, be supportive and offer constructive feedback after each interview. Celebrate their efforts and achievements, and help them learn from each experience, identifying areas for improvement.

• Be a good listener – Create a safe and non-judgmental space for them to share their feelings and experiences about the interview. Let them talk about their thoughts, anxieties, and any concerns they may have.

• Offer reassurance: Neurodiverse individuals may experience heightened anxiety in social situations like interviews. Provide reassurance that it’s normal to feel nervous and that the interview is an opportunity to learn and grow, regardless of the final result.

• Focus on their strengths –  Remind them of their unique abilities and what they bring to the table. Help them recognise the value of their neurodiversity and how it can be a source of strength and creativity.

• Discuss the interview experience –  If they are open to it, discuss the interview experience in a constructive manner. Help them identify areas where they did well and offer gentle feedback on areas they can improve.

• Explore accommodations –  If your child has disclosed their neurodiversity or if you know of specific needs they have, discuss any accommodations that could be helpful in future interviews. This might include practising mock interviews, adjusting the interview format, or providing additional support.

• Emphasise the learning process –  If the interview didn’t go as well as they’d hoped, remind them that each interview is a learning experience and an opportunity for growth. Encourage them to take lessons from the interview and apply them to future opportunities.

Conclusion

As parents of neurodiverse graduates, your support is invaluable in helping your child excel in their graduate job interviews. 

By understanding their unique needs, providing interview preparation, and encouraging self-advocacy, you can empower them to showcase their strengths and talents confidently. Consider the option of graduate coaching, and remember that your belief in their abilities will bolster their confidence and open doors to promising career opportunities. Together, we can navigate the job market with positivity and determination, ensuring a bright and successful future for your neurodiverse graduate.

Featured image by Albert Rafael from Pexels

Video interviews are a very common stage in the job application process, offering convenience and greater accessibility. For neurodiverse candidates, it also offers a greater ability to control certain factors in your environment to reduce the impact of sensory issues and reduce anxiety.

However, for neurodiverse candidates, video interviews can present some unique challenges. By optimising your environment, you can create a more comfortable and accommodating space for you to thrive in your interviews and showcase your skills to prospective employers. 

In this post, we explore practical tips to help you to perform well during your video interviews. 

1: Find a Quiet and Distraction-free space at home for your video interviews 

Select a quiet and secluded area at home to conduct your video interviews. This will help to minimise noise and potential distractions. Let your housemates know the times of your video interviews so that they can avoid interrupting you during this time. If you are particularly sensitive to noise, you may wish to consider wearing earplugs such as Loops that are designed to block out background noise whilst allowing you to still hear yourself and the interviewer. Alternatively, you may prefer to wear noise-cancelling, over-the-ear headphones during the interview to help you to focus on what the interviewer is saying.

2: Control your Lighting and Visual Stimuli in your Environment 

Having good lighting is vital for video interviews. Ensure that the space you pick to have your video interviews is well-lit, with natural light if possible. If you need additional lighting,  Smart lights that allow you to precisely control the light intensity and the colour might be a good idea to reduce discomfort or sensory issues. 

Additionally, before your video interview, spend a few minutes ensuring that the environment that you’ll be doing your video interview is clutter-free. This may help to prevent any visual distractions during your interview. 

3: Test your technology and internet connection before your video interview 

Before your video interview, do a quick check of your interview connection and familiarise yourself with the conferencing software that you’ll be using. For example, ensure that you know how to mute/ unmute yourself and check that your camera is working. 

Doing these checks before your interview will help to reduce potential technical difficulties during your interview and subsequently minimise your stress levels. 

4: Utilise accommodations and assistive technologies 

Some neurodiverse candidates benefit from assistive technologies during their video interviews such as closed captions to help with processing auditory information. Alternatively, using a digital or physical notepad during interviews may also be beneficial for writing down interview questions before answering them. Remember, during your interview, it is ok to write down the interview question and if you didn’t quite catch all of the questions the first time, ask the interviewer to repeat the question. Once you fully understand the question, then take a few moments to think of a structured response using the STAR framework where possible. 

5: Additional Sensory Management 

As well as being in a quiet, well-lit space for your video interview, ensure that the temperature of the space is comfortable. Also, if you are affected by textures, ensure that your clothing is comfortable. Opt for softer fabrics, and remove the tags/ labels from your clothing if they are irritating. Having a fidget toy or a stress ball on your desk can provide a sensory outlet and help you to alleviate anxiety during the interview. 

6: Request Interview Accommodations if you need to

If you require specific accommodations for your video interview, don’t hesitate to communicate these needs with the hiring manager or recruiter. Requesting accommodations ensures a fair and inclusive process. Some examples of accommodations are: 

• Extending the interview time slot to provide you with more time to understand and answer your interview questions. 
• Extending the interview time slot to allow for short breaks during the interview. 
• Written communications such as asking the interviewer to type out interview questions and send them to you via the chat functionality in the video conferencing software. 
• Advance notice of the format of the interview and the topics to expect to come up during the interview. 
• Request for the minimisation of visual distractions in the interviewer’s background. 
• The option to have a support person or advocate present during the interview for reassurance or assistance.
• Clear communication about the next steps and the timeline for decision-making to reduce uncertainty and anxiety.

Final Thoughts 

By optimising your environment for video interviews, neurodiverse candidates can overcome potential challenges and showcase their skills and qualifications with confidence.

It might require some trial and error to get your interview environment just right for you. However, persevere until you create an environment that helps you to focus, process information and answer the interview questions to the best of your ability. 

Creating a quiet, distraction-free space, managing sensory input, and utilising assistive technologies are essential steps in enhancing the interview experience.

Don’t be afraid or anxious advocate for your needs and communicate any necessary accommodations to ensure a successful and inclusive interview process.

With a supportive environment, neurodiverse candidates can fully demonstrate their abilities and contribute their unique perspectives to the workforce.

How we can help you at Graduate Coach 

Here at Graduate Coach, we have helped several neurodiverse students, graduates and career changers to overcome challenges that have impacted their interview performance, and given them the support and guidance that they need to become interview confident. 

If you are a neurodiverse candidate who is looking for a job and feel that you would benefit from career coaching or interview coaching, get in touch with us today. 

Featured image by Anna Shvets from Pexels

“Work it harder, Make it better, Do it faster, Makes us stronger.”- Daft Punk- Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger

Knowing how to interview someone for a job is a business-critical skill that allows you to match employees closely to the values of the company.

A company’s core values determine its culture. Employees will identify with values and culture when deciding whether it is the right company for them. The way you present yourself will also reflect these values and the interviewee will pick up on your body language and verbal cues. One of the key objectives of any interview is to represent your organisation in the best possible light.

The last thing you want is for an interviewee to have a negative experience. Some companies may not have published their values. If this is the case, you could draw on your experience to prepare. Consider positive qualities around collaborating, integrity, innovation and developing people. These areas are always high on an interviewee’s wish list. As an interviewer, you have a key responsibility in selecting the best person for the role and they will need to integrate smoothly into the organisation. This requires a well-planned and executed interview approach. 

“I’m in love with the shape of you.”- Ed Sheeran- Shape Of You

The Office for National Statistics indicates an expansion in employment rate from November 2022 to January 2023 in contrast to three months prior from August to October 2022. When UK Employees look for jobs, 64% do background research on the organisation before they apply. In addition to this, they evaluate three crucial bits of information: 48% of people consider how easy a job is to travel to, 47% of people have work-life considerations and 35% of people consider a company’s lifestyle. So any interviewer should be prepared to answer questions about the shape of the organisation when it comes to work-life balance, lifestyle or culture and accessibility.

“It’s the eye of the tiger, It’s the thrill of the fight, Rising up to the challenge of our rival.”- Survivor- Eye Of The Tiger

Applying a structured interview strategy to the planning stage of the interview process is an effective method of interviewing someone for a job because the purpose and direction will be clear from the outset. A structured interview is a way of analysing how capable an interviewee is in the role for which they are applying. Consistency of approach when interviewing many people for a job makes the evaluation easier. Applying the same list of questions and differentiating each candidate against a similar criterion provides objectivity to the process.

Structured and prepared questions can eradicate confirmation bias because each interviewee will be required to answer similar open-ended questions and be evaluated through a similar routine. Furthermore, it is important for interviewees to be evaluated objectively rather than through ‘feelings’ as this ensures that an employer makes more data-oriented hiring choices. Asking structured questions allows precision and focus on the skills needed for the role and they will outline whether a candidate has a particular strength or weakness that will affect how they carry out the daily tasks and their likely productivity.

Having the foundation of a well-executed job interview in place benefits managers and other stakeholders because planned interviews are efficient, effective and timely.

“I want one moment in time, When I’m more than I thought I could be, When all of my dreams are a heartbeat away, And the answers are all up to me.”- Whitney Houston- One Moment In Time

You should always plan your interview as this will benefit both you and the candidate. You should prepare a variety of qualifications and key responsibilities for the job role and seek advice from a manager or a supervisor so that you develop a greater understanding of what they are looking for. In the planning phase, you should be creating a series of questions you want to ask during the interview. You should be ensuring that any question asked during the interviewing process provides the candidates with opportunities to explain their qualifications in more detail and encourage a more insightful perspective on whether a candidate fits the job description. In addition to this, you should be reviewing a candidate’s resume. Outline anything that you would like them to expand upon before you start the interview process.

“When the sharpest words wanna cut me down, I’m gonna send a flood gonna drown them out, I am brave, I am bruised, I am who I’m meant to be, this is me.”- The Greatest Showman- This is me

Researching a candidate’s social media gives you a greater understanding of who they are. The employee will appreciate this and also this will have a positive effect on your company. Ensure that you deliver a motivational interview. This could include a strong pitch for your organisation and displays a strong understanding of your organisation’s goals and culture so that you know what to say to a candidate.

“Like we’re made of STARlight, STARlight.”- Taylor Swift- Starlight

When interviewing someone for a job, apply the STAR format during the interviewing process. ‘Situation, Task, Action, Result’ is the key structure that all candidates should be incorporating into their answers to questions. The situation outlines where they were and when it was and in relation to a situation they recall in their example. The task should illustrate what problems they faced that needed addressing. The action should demonstrate how they faced a challenge and why they did what they did. The result should encapsulate the outcomes and repercussions of their’s and their colleague’s response to this.

“A year has passed since I wrote my note, I should have known this right from the start.” – The Police- Message In A Bottle  

When interviewing someone for a job you should be making notes on each of the candidate’s answers. If you are interviewing more than one candidate, notes will support you in remembering each interview you managed. Alternatively, you can make notes after an interview. Having notes can act as a source when differentiating one candidate from another when making hiring choices. When considering employees for a job position, be aware that candidates can exaggerate their involvement in their previous jobs. When asking questions, make sure you receive as many details as you can and talk about this later in the interviewing process. This will help with assisting you in ensuring their reliability. If they are fabricating their example, they will forget the information they gave you at an earlier stage in the interview process.

“It’s not about the money, money, money, We don’t need your money, money, money.”- Jessie J- Price Tag

Making sure that you talk about the salary of a particular job can be beneficial for a candidate, as they make the important decision as to whether or not to join your organisation. Ensure that you are on the same page with candidates with regard to the job’s salary. Also, make sure you question them on what their salary prospects are. If a candidate is aiming for more than what you are offering, they may look for opportunities somewhere else.

“The storms are raging on the rolling sea, And on the highway of regret, The winds of change are blowing wild and free, You ain’t seen nothing like me yet.” – Bob Dylan- To Make You Feel My Love

During the interviewing process, you should make a request about any short-term roles candidates had that lasted less than 2 years. This could highlight to an employer, significant issues from a commitment perspective. In the interview, you should expand on why a candidate left their job. The candidate may open up about the problems that they faced. If the problems they faced during their previous job match the job description, they will not be suitable candidates to progress in the application process.

“But I see your true colour, Shining through, I see your true colours, And that’s why I love you.” – Cyndi Lauper- True Colours

As an employer, you should always show compassion. You want your candidates to have a great experience by displaying that you care about them. This approach will make them feel more included whilst maintaining your company’s reputation.

Even if the candidates are unsuccessful in the application for employment, showing compassion will make them feel more optimistic about your organisation and influence them to apply for a future job. You should make the interviews inclusive, ensure that a conversation is maintained, manage your time and provide candidates with the opportunity to ask questions at the end of the interview and provide them with feedback.

“The greatest thing, You’ll ever learn, Is just to love, And be loved in return.” – Nat King Cole-  Nature boy

A feature that makes a good interviewer is understanding the psychology of behaviour to encourage a more honest interviewing process. Before you begin the interview, you should always create small talk with the candidate. Examples of techniques you can apply are offering a glass of water or even providing the candidates with a tour of your facilities. This will make the candidates feel more comfortable around you and be willing to share their own personal insights that relate to the position they are applying for.

 It is useful to have strong interpersonal skills as this provides you with insights into someone’s personality and behaviour. When interviewing candidates, you should evaluate them on skills and personal qualities as they relate to the core objectives of the role.

Graduate Coaching

Online resources are easily accessible now. If you are an employer who is looking to develop your interviewing techniques, the internet can provide you with professional development programs such as interview coaching, that incorporates 1-2-1 coaching to improve your understanding of interviews and how they flow. This will achieve greater success in future job application processes.

Conclusion

If you are looking at how to interview someone for a job you need to be the person they want you to be: well-planned, enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the company. Interviewees look for pros and cons, so it is crucial that you have prepared answers for any questions that they might have. If interviews are structured you can make an effective analysis on whether a candidate is a suitable fit. A careful amount of planning should go into your interview preparation.

Whether you are focussing on a candidate’s qualifications, the key responsibilities in the job role or even reviewing a candidate’s resume, you should be able to provide them with the opportunity to expand upon this during the interview. Use social media as an interview preparation tool to provide a greater understanding of who someone is and to come across as a relatable interviewer.

The situation, task, action and result format is a great interviewing method on how to interview someone for a job and it indicates how prepared a candidate is, by giving you insights into their past experiences and whether their qualities match with the job criteria. Having notes to refer back to will help you make those reasonable hiring decisions.

You and your interviewee should be able to mutually agree on the job salary and if not then they are not the right candidate for the job role. Candidates that have had frequent short-term job roles could highlight commitment issues in the job role, however, it is important to consider the circumstances before jumping to conclusions. As an employer, you should be able to emulate compassion and empathy as this makes any candidate feel valued. Behavioural psychology is a powerful tool and you should apply it to any interview, to encourage honesty and authenticity from candidates.

Featured image by Sebastian Herrmann

Written by Charlie Blackwood

In today’s job market, there are many different types of job interviews that employers use to assess candidates. Understanding these different types of interviews can help you to prepare and improve your chances of interview success. In this blog post, we will explore the different types of job interviews and how to approach them.

Phone Interviews

Phone interviews are often the first step in the interview process. They are typically conducted by a recruiter or HR representative and last between 15-30 minutes. The purpose of the phone interview is to screen candidates before inviting them for an in-person interview. To prepare for a phone interview, research the company and position and be ready to answer common interview questions.

Phone interview Tips

• Prepare and Research
  Learn as much as you can about the company and the position you are applying for. Review the job description, company website, and other relevant resources online to help you understand the organisation’s mission, values, and culture. As this is likely to be a screening call, be prepared to be asked what you know about the company and its values.
  
• Choose a Quiet Environment
  Find a quiet, private space where you won’t be interrupted or distracted during the interview by family members or pets.
  
• Dress Appropriately

Although you won’t be seen by the interviewer, dressing professionally can help you feel more confident, prepared and interview ready.

• Have Your CV and Notes Nearby
  Keep a copy of your CV and any notes you’ve taken about the company or job in front of you. This will help you answer questions and refer to important information during the telephone interview.

• Practice Common Questions
  Be prepared to answer common phone interview questions such as “Tell me about yourself,” “What are your strengths and weaknesses,” and “Why do you want to work for this company?” Practice your answers with a friend or family member.
  
• Speak Clearly and Slowly and smile!
  When speaking on the phone, it’s important to speak clearly and at a moderate pace. Enunciate your words, and avoid speaking too fast or too softly. Smiling whilst on the phone can make you sound warmer and more enthusiastic. 

Video Interviews

Video interviews are similar to phone interviews, but they are conducted over video conferencing software, such as Zoom or Skype. They allow the interviewer to see and hear the candidate and can be used to screen candidates before inviting them for an in-person interview. To prepare for a video interview, test your technology beforehand and ensure that you have a quiet, well-lit space to conduct the interview.

Video interview Tips

Test your Equipment
Make sure you test your internet connection, webcam, and microphone before the interview. Do this the day before the interview if you can in case of any issues.

Check that your video conferencing software is working properly and that you have the necessary login information.

Choose a Professional Setting
Choose a well-lit, quiet, and clutter-free area for the video interview. Make sure the background is clean and unobtrusive. Sit at a desk or table, rather than on your bed or couch so that you maintain an upright posture. 

Dress Appropriately
Dress professionally as if you were attending an in-person interview. 

Make Eye Contact
Look directly into the camera to make eye contact with the interviewer. This will help you appear engaged and confident.

Practice with a Mock Interview
Practice with a friend, family member or interview coach beforehand to get comfortable with the technology and to practice answering common interview questions. Speak clearly and at a moderate pace, and use nonverbal cues such as nodding and smiling to show engagement.

In-Person Interviews

In-person interviews are the most common type of job interview and typically take place at the employer’s office. They may involve one or more interviewers and can last from 30 minutes to several hours. To prepare for an in-person interview, research the company and position, dress professionally, and practice answering common interview questions.

Tips for in-person interviews 

Arrive at the location of your interview 15 minutes early
This allows you to mentally prepare for your interview. Factor in some extra time for unexpected delays.

Use the STAR framework
Formatting your interview answers in the STAR format will help you to answer your questions concisely. 

Group Interviews

Group interviews involve multiple candidates being interviewed together. This allows the employer to evaluate how candidates interact with each other and assess their teamwork and communication skills. To prepare for a group interview, research the company and position, dress professionally, and be ready to collaborate with other candidates.

Group Interview Tips

• Get to know the people you are working with. This will allow you can work together more efficiently, as you will have a better idea about their individual strengths and how to divide responsibility.
• Make your voice heard/stand out You are unlikely to make a good impression if you don’t contribute much.

Behavioural Interviews

Behavioural interviews are designed to assess how candidates have handled past situations and how they would handle similar situations in the future. Candidates are asked to provide specific examples of their experiences and may be asked follow-up questions to further explore their responses. To prepare for a behavioural interview, research the company and position, and be ready to provide specific examples of your experiences.

Behavioural Interview Tips

• Have examples prepared beforehand that demonstrate the qualities the role you are interviewing for requires. 
• Practice talking about these examples out loud.

Case Interviews

Case interviews are commonly used in consulting and finance industries. Candidates are presented with a business problem and are asked to analyze it and provide a solution. This type of interview is designed to assess a candidate’s analytical and problem-solving skills. To prepare for a case interview, research the company and position, and practice analyzing business problems and providing solutions.

Case Interview Tips

• Ensure you have done thorough research about the company and area of work you are interviewing for as this will help you answer questions more easily.
• Practice working under pressure, as this will help you be more decisive during your interview.

Technical Interviews

Technical interviews are used to assess a candidate’s technical skills and knowledge. They may involve coding challenges or other technical assessments and are commonly used for positions in engineering, IT, and other technical fields. To prepare for a technical interview, research the company and position, and practice your technical skills and knowledge.

Technical Interviews Tips

• Revise what you know about the skills and knowledge you will need for the job.
• Practice explaining these details clearly, as this will make you stand out from those who can’t. 

Informal Interviews

An informal interview is a casual chat between an interviewer and a candidate that is less structured and less formal compared to a traditional job interview. It is generally used to get to know the candidate personally, rather than professionally, to see if they would be a good fit for the company and the culture. 

Informal Interview Tips

• While this is an informal interview, you should still be polite and respectful to the interviewer.
• Figure out ahead of time questions you may be asked in this kind of interview, such as what your salary expectations are and how easily you can commute to their office.

Assessment Centres 

An assessment centre is a process used typically by graduate employers to evaluate the skills, abilities, and personality traits of students and graduates. They typically involve a series of interviews, group activities, presentations and tests.  

Assessment Centres Tips

• Practice working as part of a group, as this is a key skill that you will need in almost any job.
• Ensure you contribute to any group discussions, as you will not impress if let other people do most of the work in a group task.

Final Thoughts 

Understanding the different types of job interviews and how to approach them can help you prepare and improve your chances of success. Researching the company and position, dressing professionally, and practising your interview skills can help you make a positive impression and stand out from other candidates. Good luck!

Image by Sora Shimazaki from Pexels

When it comes to job interviews, arriving on time is crucial. In fact, arriving too late for an interview can result in an automatic rejection, while arriving too early can make the interviewer feel rushed and unprepared. So, how early should you be for a job interview? Read on to find out. 

How early should you arrive for an in-person job interview?

To ensure a successful start to your job interview, it’s always a wise move to arrive at the interview location 15 minutes before your scheduled interview time. 

This gives you ample time to sign in at the reception area and to find where you need to go within the building for your interview. It also provides you with some time to gather your thoughts and take some deep breaths just before the interview starts. This extra time can help you feel more confident, collected and mentally prepared for the interview questions ahead.

What should I do if I arrive too early for a job interview? 

If you arrive more than 15 minutes early, you may end up waiting around for a while, which could make you feel anxious or uncomfortable. Additionally, arriving excessively early may make the interviewer feel rushed and unprepared if they are not ready for you yet.

If you do find yourself arriving very early, consider waiting in a nearby coffee shop or public area until it’s closer to your scheduled interview time. If you do this, make sure that you keep a close eye on the time. This can help you stay relaxed and calm in the run-up to your interview. 

How early should you leave the house for an in-person interview? 

When preparing for an in-person job interview, it’s important to consider the time it takes to get to the interview location. The ideal time to leave the house for a job interview will depend on various factors such as distance, traffic, and transportation mode. 

The day before your interview, you should carefully map out your journey factoring in any poor weather conditions, time of day, roadworks or transportation strikes. Also, account for the fact that you will want to arrive at the interview location 15 minutes before the interview start time. 

Once you’ve planned your route and determined what time you’ll leave the house, add some buffer time in case of any delays during your journey. 

How early should I be for an online interview?

If your job interview is online, you won’t need to factor in travel time, but you should still plan to be ready well in advance of the scheduled interview time. Here are some tips to ensure you’re prepared for an online interview:

The day before your online interview:

• Test your technology. Make sure your computer/laptop, webcam, microphone, and internet connection are working correctly. This gives you enough time to fix or replace any required equipment. 

The morning of your interview:

•  Dress professionally. Just because the interview is online doesn’t mean you should neglect your appearance. Dress as you would for an in-person interview. 
• Prepare your environment. Choose a quiet, well-lit room for the interview and ensure that the background is clean and professional. Eliminate any potential distractions, such as pets or family members, and make sure you have a comfortable chair to sit in.
• Check your internet connection 

10 minutes before your online interview: 

• Be ready to join the call. 
• Log in to the video conference software you’ll be using a few minutes before the scheduled interview time to ensure everything is working correctly. Have your CV, and cover letter, nearby in case you need to refer to them during the interview. You may wish to have some water on your desk as well as a notepad and pen. 

Why it’s important to arrive early at an interview

You only get one chance to make a first impression. Arriving for an interview on time demonstrates to the employer that you are punctual, reliable and professional. Additionally it showcases your ability to plan ahead and account for unexpected delays. Lastly, it shows your enthusiasm for the job. 

Avoid being late at all costs. It will reflect poorly on you regardless of the reason. If necessary, do a dry run of your route to familiarise yourself with the area and the commute time. 

Tips for arriving early to an interview 

• Plan your route carefully – plan in contingency time
• Prepare your interview outfit the night before 
• Pack your bag with  everything you’ll need the night before
• Get a good night’s sleep the night before the interview 
• Check your interview invite carefully for any arrival instructions such as which floor to go to, or wich entrance to use 
• When possible schedule your interview at a time tat best suits you

Summary

Arriving 15 minutes early for a job interview is a good rule of thumb. It will leave you with enough time to collect yourself and mentally prepare for the interview. However, it is important to read any arrival instructions from your interviewer carefully. Ultimately, plan ahead, and give yourself buffer time in case of any traffic or delays. If you arrive too early, go to a nearby cafe or coffee shop until it is nearer the time of your interview. 

Need help with preparing for your interviews? Get in touch with us today! Our career coaches can help you to nail your next interview and land your dream job. 

Image by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels