Top 10 Tips for Nailing Your Job Interview

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, but with the right approach, you can shine as a standout candidate. As an Indigenous job seeker, you bring unique perspectives and valuable experiences to the table. It’s important to present yourself in the best light and make a lasting impression.

Whether you’re stepping into the corporate world, aiming to join a dynamic startup, or pursuing opportunities within Indigenous-focused organisations, these tips can help you navigate the interview process with confidence.

Here are the top 10 things the best applicants do during their interviews to make a lasting impression:

Share Your Experience Clearly

1. The best candidates talk about their experience in an easy-to-follow way. Make sure your career story is coherent and highlights your key achievements.

Engage with Thoughtful Questions

2. Show that you’re actively listening by qualifying the interviewer’s questions with your own. This demonstrates that you’re not just waiting to respond but genuinely engaged in the conversation.

Know the Company’s Values

3. Mention the company’s values or something recent from their news or website. This shows you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the organisation.

Show Interest in the Interviewer

4. Ask about the interviewer. Everyone likes to talk about themselves a little, and it helps build a connection.

Relate to the Job Description

5. Pick out key points from the job description and discuss your experience with these aspects. It shows you understand the role and how you fit into it.

Highlight Interests Outside of Work

6. Don’t be one-dimensional. Sharing your hobbies and interests outside of work shows you’re a well-rounded individual.

Be Polite and Punctual

7. Good manners go a long way. Being on time, saying please and thank you, and showing respect can set you apart from other candidates.

Balance Confidence with Humility

8. Know what you can bring to the role and the company, but also show a growth mindset. It’s about being confident yet open to learning and growth.

Understand Your Worth

9. Don’t be afraid to hold firm on your salary expectations. Knowing your worth and being able to communicate it confidently is crucial.

Clarify Next Steps

10. End the interview by clarifying the next steps and timelines. Ask if there’s anything about your skills or experience that needs further explanation. This shows your eagerness and helps ensure there are no misunderstandings.

By incorporating these tips, you’ll not only leave a positive impression but also increase your chances of moving forward in the hiring process. 

These strategies have been proven to make candidates memorable and desirable to recruiters and hiring managers. So, go into your next interview prepared, confident, and ready to showcase the best version of yourself. Good luck!