Interview Tips

Top Interview Tips

1. Understand What Employers Are Looking For
Interviews aren’t just about good answers — they’re about relevant answers. Research the company, know their values, and show how your experience and goals align with theirs.

2. The 7-38-55 Rule

• 55% of your impact is body language

• 38% is tone of voice

• 7% is the actual words you use
  So—smile, sit upright, and project confidence.

Common Interview Questions

Tell me about yourself.
Keep it professional. Summarise your career journey, what drives you, and how your experience relates to the role.

Explain any career gaps.
Focus on what you did to stay productive — training, courses, volunteering, or personal development.

What motivates you?
Show enthusiasm for your profession and the value you add to others or your organisation.

Why are you applying for this role / Why this company?
Align your answer with the company’s mission, culture, or achievements. Show genuine interest.

What are your strengths?
Select strengths relevant to the job description. Provide examples that demonstrate results.

What are your weaknesses?
Discuss a past weakness you’ve improved on, or one unrelated to the core job requirements.

Tell me about a challenge / mistake / achievement.
Use the STAR format: Situation, Task, Action, Result. Always focus on positive outcomes and what you learned.

Where do you see yourself in five years?
Talk about growth and contribution — align your goals with the company’s future.

Why should we hire you?
Show how your skills and values match the company’s needs. Back this up with examples.

Salary expectations?
Give a realistic range that reflects your experience and market value.

Good Questions to Ask Employers

• What are the key priorities in this role?

• What would success look like in the first six months?

• What is the team culture like?

• What opportunities are there for growth and training?

• What are the next steps in the hiring process?

Things to Avoid Saying

• Don’t criticise former employers.

• Don’t say “I’ll do anything” — focus on your value.

• Avoid vague terms like “I’m a quick learner” — give examples.

• Never say “I don’t know how” — link to similar experience instead.

• Don’t ask what the company does — research beforehand.

Telephone & Video Interview Tips

Preparation

• Test your phone or video setup beforehand.

• Choose a quiet, well-lit space.

• Dress professionally — it affects mindset and impression.

During the Interview

• Smile and sit upright — posture affects tone.

• Speak clearly and avoid filler words (“um”, “ah”).

• Listen carefully and don’t interrupt.

• Have questions ready to show genuine interest.

After the Interview

• Thank the interviewer for their time.

• Follow up with a brief email confirming your continued interest.

Final Thoughts

Employers hire candidates who demonstrate enthusiasm, self-awareness, and alignment with their values.
Prepare well, be confident, and connect your experience to what the employer truly needs.