Career Centre Tips: Ace Your Next Interview

Career Centre Tips from the Career Centre and Work-Integrated Learning Initiative Manager:

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to have several successful job interviews that led to job offers. Along the way, I’ve learned some valuable lessons. I want to share a few tips that have helped me and will help you as you prepare for your interviews.

Focus on Making a Connection

One of the more surprising moments in a Recruitment and Selection class I took at university was learning that interviews are not always the most effective way to assess whether someone is qualified for a role. That stuck with me and made me wonder why interviews remain such an important part of the hiring process.

Over time, I have come to believe that interviews are more about an employer getting to know you, understanding how you communicate, and seeing whether you will fit within their team and organization. Employers have already seen your education and experience on your resume before inviting you to the interview.

I believe first impressions can play an important role, so I would consider the following before the interview:

• Dress for the job
• Shake hands if appropriate and welcomed
• Smile and be approachable
• Be prepared to make small talk
• Lead with confidence
• Let your personality shine

I had to remember that being invited to an interview is already an accomplishment. It means the employer saw potential in my application.

Remember That You Are Evaluating the Employer Too

I have found that not every job is the right fit, and that’s okay. Some of these experiences led me to view interviews as a two-way conversation. While employers are learning about you, at the end of the interview you will also have the chance to learn about them.

One question I now like to ask to ensure the job is a right fit for me is: “Could you tell me about the team I would be working with?” This question has helped me better understand whether that workplace would be a good match for me.

Now I think about what matters most to me in a workplace and prepare a few questions to gain insights. Asking questions that cannot be found through research also demonstrates your interest and helps you decide whether to accept a job offer if one is extended.

Find What Helps You Manage Nerves

It’s completely normal to feel nervous before an interview. I certainly did, especially when walking into a room with several interviewers seated around a table. At first, my nerves often got the best of me.

Over time, I discovered a few tips that helped me feel more confident.

• Anticipate the questions and prepare responses
• Practice, practice, practice
• Bring a notebook with a few helpful reminders
• Remember that the interview is a conversation

One approach that made a big difference for me in overcoming nerves was asking questions at the end, which helped make the interview feel more balanced. Interviewers often appreciate candidates who are curious about the role and the team, especially when they ask questions no one else has asked.

Final Thoughts

I have discovered that every interview is an opportunity to learn, grow, and build confidence. Whether or not an interview results in a job offer, each experience helps you develop valuable skills that will support you throughout your career.

If you would like support with interview preparation, practice, or developing questions, or simply someone encouraging to cheer you on, please reach out to the FNUniv Career Centre. We are here to help and would be happy to support you on your career journey.

Career Centre

Written by: Tally Dufour

Photo credit: Cherish Alexson