Going the extra mile to land your dream job

1. Do your research!

If you do not know much about the company or the sector, the employer may wonder why you are interviewing for the job. The company’s website is a good place to start. Read any news and articles posted on the site, as well as the ‘about’ section to understand where the business began and what its main objectives are. Next, go even further. Look up the company on social media sites such as LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook. This will give you more insight into the day-to-day activities and culture of the company. Being knowledgeable about the business will help to show you are interested in the role and invested in the business.

2. Prepare a script

Once you have learnt as much as you can about your potential employer, start to think about what they will want to know about you. If you are not sure, try an online search of common interview questions. Be prepared to tell the interviewer about yourself, including previous experiences, skills and strengths. You may also be asked why you applied for the job (bring in knowledge from your background research) and what you can bring to the team. Spend time writing down your answers – this will become your interview script.

3. Practice, practice, practice

Now that your script is ready, it is time to rehearse! Repeating your answers out loud will help you to sound confident and smooth when talking to your interviewer. This process may also lead you to new questions and answers which you can incorporate. If you feel comfortable, ask a friend or family member to interview you with your set of questions to replicate the scenario and better prepare you for the real thing. Rather than simply reading off a piece of paper, try to engage with your interviewer and work your answers into the conversation. Ask for feedback from friends and family to ensure you are speaking clearly and not too slowly or quickly, and can maintain eye contact.

4. Consider your environment

If you have been asked to attend an online interview, think about where this will take place. To leave a great first impression, choose somewhere quiet to avoid disruptive noises, with a plain backdrop such as a white wall. If this is not an option, focus on making sure your surroundings are clean and tidy. Lighting can also make a huge difference on a video call – try to face a window with natural light and avoid dark places so that your interviewer can see you clearly. If you do not have access to a suitable place at home, consider attending the interview from somewhere else such as a friend’s house.

5. Prove that you want it

This is your dream job, so let your interviewer know that! Use your knowledge about the company and the sector to demonstrate your commitment to the role. It is important to look and sound interested while maintaining a friendly tone throughout your conversation. If you look disinterested (such as looking around the room or at your phone), the interviewer will not only assume you do not really want the role you are applying for, but that you may not be an approachable colleague if you are hired.

You have the tools so be sure to submit an application when you see your dream job advertised. If you have not found it yet, check out the EURES portal which is full of job opportunities.

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