Winning Interview Tips For Your Dream ICT Role

16th June 2020

Highlights

  • Nicola Steel, JJP Talent Solutions provides a handy guide on preparing for the tech role interview of your dreams.
  • Do your research about the company website, their LinkedIn profile, etc. and prepare your portfolio to demonstrate your skills and experience.
  • Prepare for the commonly asked questions given below in addition to the questions you'll be asking the interviewer.

You have been invited to an interview.  Congratulations! You are most likely feeling a mixture of excitement and anxiety. When preparing for an interview, the best advice is to keep it simple so that you don’t feel overwhelmed. Here are some practical tips to convince interviewers that you have the skills and experience that make you the ideal candidate.

Firstly, be prepared and do your research. This seems obvious however many candidates do not do this so by doing so you will put yourself in a leading position. 

1.       Thoroughly review the company’s website to discover more about the history, mission, values, culture and products/ services.  Search for information about key people, projects and accolades. Do a Google search for news stories relating to the company which will give you an insight into the company’s stability, future plans and opportunities for growth. These news stories will also give you a perspective on the company’s reputation.

2.       Search LinkedIn.  Research the interviewers’ profiles – you may have something in common such as university, connections or hobbies which can really break the ice at interview. 

3.       Read the job description again so that you fully understand the role, responsibilities and requirements. List what skills you have that match the requirements of the role.  Think of strong examples that demonstrate your expertise and achievements. 

4.       Most job interviews are composed of common questions. Here are some examples:

Tell me about yourself.

  • Why do you want to work here?
  • What do you know about the company?
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses?
  • What have been your achievements to date?
  • What are your goals for the future?
  • How do you respond under pressure?
  • Where do you see yourself in five years?
  • Why should we hire you?
  • What do you like to do in your spare time?

Draft concise and relevant responses to each and practise them so that you can answer with ease and confidence.

5.       Prepare a portfolio of your work to help vividly illustrate your skills and experience. Also ensure that you have other necessary documentation including your CV, passport/ visa, references, notepad and pen. This will demonstrate that you are an organised and prepared individual.

6.       Think about questions that you would like to ask the interviewer. Asking questions demonstrates that you are interested in the opportunity and uncovers if the role is right for you. 

Good questions include:

  • What are the things that make this organisation a great place to work?
  • What are the most important criteria for success in this job?
  • Tell me about the organisation’s culture.
  • What are the opportunities for advancement?
  • What are the next steps in the hiring process?

7.       Plan your journey. Confirm the address. How will you get there? If you are driving, is there parking available? 

8.       Plan what to wear. For a corporate company, a suit is normally advised. Informal is more appropriate for a tech start-up. Always ensure that your appearance is neat, groomed and tidy thus indicating motivation, energy, and critical thinking.

The Interview - DOs & DON’Ts

1.       DO Leave in plenty of time.

2.       DON’T Arrive over 15 minutes before the interview start time.

3.       DO Be mindful of your behaviour from the moment you enter the interview venue.  How you treat the receptionist will be scrutinised so be polite and professional.

4.       DO Make good eye contact, smile and have a firm handshake. Be conscious of posture (upright yet comfortable) and the use of your hands (no fidgeting!)

5.       DO Ensure that your answers are clear, succinct and provide examples.

6.       DO Ask relevant and interesting questions.

7.       DON’T Answer your phone!  Ideally turn it off so that you do not get distracted.

8.       DO Take notes. This demonstrates interest and stops any nervous fidgeting.

After the interview, message the interviewer to thank them for the opportunity.  This is a good opportunity to reiterate your interest and suitability in the role and company.  

If you are being represented by a recruiter, they should provide correct address and dress code details together with information about the job, company culture and interview process.  However, it is still essential that you do your own research and preparation to give you the best chance of securing the role.

Best of luck!

Nicola Steel

Founder and Director

JJP Talent Solutions Pty Ltd

0499 773546
nicola@jjptalent.com.au
www.jjptalent.com.au

 

 

More Articles Like This