Jobseeker tips

How to prepare for your next job interview

It’s safe to say our talent consultants are experts when it comes to interviewing candidates.


With plenty of practice interviewing in person, by phone and via video calls, we definitely have the know how!


Below are some interview facts and our top tips to prepare you for success.

Interview facts

  • A decision is usually made within the first 10 mins and then the rest of the time is spent justifying the decision.


  • Interviewers use the “I like you, if you’re like me” approach irrespective of the role, so it's important to build rapport from the start of the interview.


  • The more the interviewer talks, the more favourably the candidates are evaluated.


  • Research shows that interviewers are more influenced by negatives than positives, so don't focus too much on the negative parts of your current or previous jobs, try keep to the positives.

Preparing for a video interview

  • Prepare the same way you would for a face to face interview - read through our top tips on the right.


  • Make sure you're somewhere quiet, where you won't be interrupted and have good lighting


  • Do a test run so you know your technology - sound check!


  • Check your background - you don't want an unmade bed, a messy kitchen or a bright window behind you


  • Dress like you would a normal face to face interview


  • Speak slowly and clearly, even with the best internet connection there can be glitches

Our top interview tips

  • Do your research on both the company and your interviewer. Check out the company website, their LinkedIn, and their LinkedIn profile as well so you know a bit about how long they've been at the company and their previous roles.


  • Be 5 minutes early – it’s good manners! If for some reason you are running late, be sure to call them so they know you're on your way.


  • Make a good impression with the receptionist.


  • Make an effort to build rapport quickly with the interviewer - knowing a bit about them from your pre-interview research can really help here.


  • When answering questions demonstrate that you have done your research on the company and the person interviewing you. Be able to explain why you would want to work there, bonus points for being able to explain why you'd like to work with them if they're a direct manager or someone in the team.


  • Use a set technique to respond to questions such as SOAR – Situation, Objective, Action and Result – if you need more info on this ask your iknowho consultant.


  • If applicable take along a portfolio of your work to talk through – it shows a genuine passion for your work and will help you to stand out from the crowd.


  • Be prepared with a few questions to ask. If they've covered everything you need to know you can ask them to go into more detail about any aspects of the role or working there, this shows you're keen.


  • Send a thank you email or card, sometimes it's the little things that can make you stand out when they're interviewing a lot of candidates for that role.

Resume writing tips to ensure you stand out

It’s a fact that employers and recruiters are generally time poor – so make it super simple to ascertain what your key skills are from the front page.

  • Think of a resume as the shop front window to you! Ensure that you have your best product on show…and not hidden on the second page.

  • It’s OK to have two versions – one that you send to apply and a second more detailed version that you may wish to send out once you have locked in an interview.

  • Avoid using graphics or design (unless you are a designer!) and cover pages, as these distract the viewer from your key skills.

  • There is no need to include a picture of yourself or your date of birth – why give the employer the opportunity to make a judgment on you prior to an interview?

  • When adding personal hobbies ask is it relevant to your job search? Does it give the prospective employer a reason to meet or not meet you?
  • There’s also no need to state that it's a CV – that’s obvious.


  • No matter how many years experience you have it should easily fit within two pages… any more and you start to lose your audience.


  • One of the biggest mistakes we see job seekers make is the loooooooooong CV, which has often been edited along the way using the same format they had 10 years ago. Don’t be lazy! As your CV is often the first impression you give, take the time to draft a new CV after each job.


  • No need to add references yet - your recruiter will request these during the interview process. Most recruiters add your CV into a database that can accidentally pick up your referee details instead of your own.


  • And lastly ask yourself: “Would you hire you based on your CV against the job ad?"

When your CV and cover letter are ready, send it through to us so we can review your experience and see how we can help with your job search.

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