RMS 2024 Interview Tips for Candidates
Welcome to the first instalment of our mini blog series. We’re excited to kick things off by sharing the team’s hottest interview tips.
Don’t Get Rejected Because You Didn’t Do Your Research
You would be surprised how many times we hear feedback from clients that they’re not progressing a candidate because they didn’t know why they wanted to work there, what the company did or what was involved in the job … despite us sending all this information in our interview confirmations. Don’t leave it until you are sitting in reception waiting to be called in to interview or worse while you’re on your first video call!
Preparation is key. Start by revising the job description, identify key skills, experiences and qualities the role needs. Can you bring real examples to match? Explore the company’s online presence; LinkedIn, the company’s website and even news articles can offer great insights. Find out what makes the company unique, who their clients are and jot down questions as you go.
Check out the team, understand their roles and maybe even get familiar with their faces and backgrounds – where they worked before and what their education is – LinkedIn is a fantastic resource for snooping! This can ease pre-interview nerves and help build rapport.
Dress to Impress and Be on Time
Plan your outfit and your route ahead of time. Aim to be smart, professional and conservative depending on the company culture and style (no trainers, jeans or overly casual clothes but your consultant can help with this). Leave early to account for delays and aim to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled interview — with enough time to gather yourself, use the bathroom and get a feel for the company while you wait. The reception area can give a great insight into a company’s culture and the vibe of the people working there.
First impressions matter so dress with a smile and if offered a handshake, make sure yours is strong. Smiling triggers the release of endorphins which can improve mood, reduce stress and be a social magnet. It shows confidence and sets a positive tone, both for you and the interviewer who may also be feeling the interview pressure.
Practice Confidence, Not Perfection
Interviews can be nerve-wracking. Ease pre-interview jitters with plenty of self-care and lots of practice, such as doing mock interviews with friends or family.
Rehearse your answers and refine them without over-memorising. If you feel you need to improve, a tip is to video yourself on your mobile in private. Play it back with your phone face down so you only hear your voice to identify any unnecessary “filler” words, “ums” and “errs”! Then watch it again with the sound off to identify any unwanted hand or eye movements. Do you look relaxed? Shoulders dropped can force you to relax, hands gently held together can help with any awkward hand movements. Then finally watch it back and be kind to yourself – remember you will be your biggest critic!
Even something as simple as arriving early to wash your hands and take a few calming breaths can work wonders. You’ve got this!
Master the STAR Method for Your Answers
To keep your responses clear and relevant, use the STAR method:
Situation – Set the scene
Task – Describe what needed to be done
Action – Explain what you specifically did
Result – Share the outcome
Nerves can make you rush so try pausing before answering questions. It’s ok to take a moment to think before responding and it’s actually a good sign.
Lean Into Your Strengths but Acknowledge Gaps Gracefully
If a question highlights a skill you’re not strong in, stay calm. Emphasise how quickly you can learn and mention any transferable skills. Show you’re open to growth.
Guide the conversation towards topics you’re confident in and try subtly mirroring the interviewer’s body language to help build a good connection.
Keep It Positive, No Matter What
Avoid the temptation to criticise past employers or discuss why you left negatively. Focus on what you learned and how you’ve grown. Any negativity could raise red flags and make the interviewer question your fit.
Similarly, leave questions about salary, benefits and promotions until later stages or discuss them with your recruiter.
Ask Insightful Questions
When it’s your turn, ask questions that show genuine interest in the role, like: “What are the biggest challenges for someone in this position?” or “What’s the team culture like?” Avoid questions about pay or benefits.
You can also ask about the previous person in the role to learn more about the position’s challenges and expectations.
Follow-Up to Reaffirm Your Interest
After the interview, contact your consultant with your feedback. Send your consultant a follow up with a thank-you email to pass on or send it directly if it’s a direct application. Mention specific things you enjoyed about the conversation or things that excited you about the role.
If you went through an agency, give your feedback right away so that it’s still fresh. Your consultant can then share it with the employer and reassure them of your genuine interest.
Final Thought: Stay Positive, Relax and Enjoy!
Interviews aren’t just about proving yourself; they’re about discovering if this role is right for you too. Remember, the interviewers are meeting with you because they see value in your experience, so show them why they’re right.
And if this one isn’t “the one”? Chalk it up to great practice. Each interview helps you grow, making you more prepared for the next one. Always leave on a good note as you never know when your paths may cross again. Keep every door open to you. Good luck!
