A job interview can seem daunting at the best of times, even more so if it has been a while since your last one. Read below our top tips on getting back in the game so you can enter your next interview with confidence to stand out from the crowd.

Body language speaks volumes

Needless to say, your conversation during an interview should always remain professional. However, if you are talking the talk, it is important your body language is walking the walk. You could be saying all the right things but if you are slouching and looking off into the distance while talking, your message won’t have the same impact. Sitting up straight, with your arms uncrossed and open, conveys a message of confidence to your interviewer (even if you’re not feeling it); fake it until you make it! Maintaining eye contact is also vital. Holding the interviewer’s gaze communicates the message that you are motivated and enthusiastic to take on the position.

Interviewing in an AC (After Covid) World 

In today’s corporate climate, there is a high chance that your interview could be conducted online via a platform like Zoom... and the rules are no different. Professional attire is still a must. It is also a good idea to pick a room with good lighting and a blank backdrop (no, this is not the right time for your favourite zoom background of you on a tropical beach). It is also important that you give your interviewer your full attention. This means, closing down all other tabs, picking a quiet space to conduct the interview and turning your phone on silent. 

In order to best mimic in-person eye contact, try to look into the webcam when your interviewer is talking. If you keep your eyes on the screen, to your interviewer, it may seem like you are distracted and focusing on something else. If you are using a laptop, one trick is to minimise the Zoom application window and position it as close to the webcam as possible. You should also always raise your laptop until the screen reaches your eye level. Just stack any books or boxes you have lying around for a DIY stand.

Check your Socials

Today, social media can be a powerful recruiting tool and employers will often trawl the social media pages of potential employees looking for red flags. Thus, it is vital you ensure your profile tells the story you want it to. Don’t let an embarrassing video from four years ago hinder your future job prospects so consider doing an audit of your social media pages (don’t forget your tagged items). Facebook allows you to view your page from the perspective of a potential employer. Simply select the three dots next to your cover photo and click the ‘View As’ option from the pop-up menu. Your safest bet, if you have any questionable content that you really can not part ways with, is to switch your social media profiles to private. 

Your Age Can Be Your Greatest Strength

No matter your age, it is important to highlight your strengths and what you can bring to the table. If you are towards the younger end of the spectrum,  you may not have experience, your enthusiasm and eagerness to learn can bring its own benefits. You are able to bring a different mindset to the table and possibly with more current education. On the flip side, if you have been in the workforce for a bit longer, it’s important to highlight your wealth of knowledge and specific accomplishments you have achieved in your previous roles. These tangible results will set you apart from other candidates. Bring with you a plan on how you can bring your past successes and implement them into the role you are applying for.