However, you must be prepared to turn this opportunity into a prosperous career. So, to ensure you ace your interview, we’ve brought you proven tips from experts to help you before, during, and after your interview. Along with that, we’ll cover common interview questions such as “What are your strengths?”, “Why should we hire you?” and how to answer them.
Before the Interview Tips
1. Arrive on Time
Starting with the basics, it is highly recommended that you arrive at least 10 to 15 minutes before the venue for your interview.
This gives you enough time to find your way to reception, use the washroom, or redo your hair and look presentable.
If you’re giving an online interview, join the interview via the provided link exactly at the given time.
| Bonus Tip: If you’re unfamiliar with the area where the business is located, consider scouting it out a few days before to ensure you don’t get lost. |
2. Test Your Tech
If you are giving an interview online, then make sure your camera, microphone, and internet connection work perfectly. Use a neutral, well-lit background.
3. Reflect on Your Core Skills
Instead of just thinking about what skills you possess and your strengths, analyze how these attributes directly align with the job description if you can share it as an example, even better.
You can naturally answer the question “What are your strengths?” in this manner, without making it seem like you’re reading a script.
| NOTE: If you’re a fresher, you can talk about your transferable skills, i.e., abilities and knowledge that can be applied across different jobs and industries. |
4. Research The Employer
Did you know 47% of recruiters said they would reject a candidate who had little knowledge about the company where they’re applying?
So, make sure you thoroughly research the company you’re applying to.
As for what to research, you should focus on understanding the company’s mission, values, culture, history, specific job descriptions, and current leadership.
It is also a good idea to learn about your interviewer’s name (if possible).
5. Maintain a Professional Virtual Identity
Much like how you’ll be searching the employer, you can be certain that you are being searched as well. Not just that, 54% of employers reject applicants because of their social media content.
Therefore, it’s important to maintain a professional virtual identity on all of your social media platforms, especially LinkedIn and X (Twitter).
Additionally, make sure your email address is professional. Simple combinations of your first, middle, and last names are preferred.
- Example of a good email address: [email protected]
- Example of a bad email address: [email protected]
6. Be Prepared to Answer Questions (For Remote Jobs)
Hiring managers want to see familiarity with platforms commonly used by remote professionals and virtual assistants. Be prepared to answer questions like “What digital tools or platforms have you used for remote work?” or “Are you comfortable managing tasks and communication virtually?”.
Additionally, you might be asked for specific apps and tools. So, it is highly recommended that you’re familiar with the following:
- Communication: Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Slack
- Task Management: Trello, Asana, Monday.com
- File Sharing & Docs: Google Workspace, Microsoft 365
- CRM Systems: HubSpot, Salesforce (depending on role)
- Remote Access: TeamViewer, VPNs, cloud apps
If you’ve real-world examples or experience (training or freelance) with these tools, don’t hesitate to mention that, as these will help you stand out.
7. Dress Professionally
Regardless of the job you’re applying for, it is highly recommended that you aim for a professional, business look.
- For men, it is best to wear a suit (if possible), or a button-down shirt in neutral colors, dress trousers, and formal shoes.
- For women, a button-down blouse in pastel or white with a knee-length skirt or dress trousers is appropriate. Closed-toe shoes with a moderate heel (2-3 inches) are recommended.
While on the topic of dressing, make sure your shoes are polished, nails trimmed (or manicured), your breath doesn’t stink, your hair is nicely combed or styled, and avoid strong perfumes.
| NOTE: Even if you’re at home, dress fully, head to toe. You never know if you’ll need to stand up or move. |
8. Silent All Distractions
This goes for both virtual and in-person interviews. Silence notifications, and inform others in your home.
Particularly for remote interviews, close all unnecessary tabs or apps.
During the Interview Tips
9. Make a Strong Introduction
While the saying “first impression is the last impression” may be cliche, it does apply to interviews.
Make sure you use the interviewer’s name (Ms. or Mr.) during your first meeting and during the interview. Also, as soon as they approach you, stand up, offer a firm handshake, maintain confident eye contact, and smile to create a positive initial impression.
But why a firm handshake? According to a study, a firm handshake not only makes a good first impression but also reduces the impact of a negative impression.
10. Engage in Genuine Dialogue
An interview is meant to be an exchange of knowledge and an assessment to analyze how well you are able to describe your skills and strengths.
So, engage in a genuine dialogue, carefully listen to the interviewer, and avoid answering in a simple yes or no.
Maintaining eye contact is also important during the interviews, and don’t hesitate to pause and think before answering. In fact, pausing is recommended as it helps you consider all your options, avoid impulsive responses, and build stronger relationships.
Pro Tip: Use headphones to avoid echo and ensure clearer sound quality.
11. Be Aware of Your Body Language
Body language is a complex topic; it can either allow you to say everything without saying a word or completely undermine your loud, spoken words.
So, make sure you are aware of your body language. Here are some ways to ensure you appear confident and calm:
- Keep your posture upright and your arms open and relaxed, as opposed to closed and tight.
- Let your natural smile shine, but never fake a smile.
- Make eye contact and gesture with your hands while you speak, if it feels natural.
- Plant your feet firmly on the ground when seated, and avoid foot tapping.
12. Be Honest
This isn’t politics, so lying won’t get you very far. Instead, answer each question honestly.
If you are unable to answer a question, it is okay to state that; however, don’t just say “I don’t know”, instead reply with a positive response like “Honestly, I haven’t experienced that, but I would solve it by…” or “Great question, and I’d be interested in learning about it”.
13. Don’t Talk Badly About Anyone
One of the most common questions during an interview is “Why are you leaving your current job?” The only viable answer is professional growth.
Never say bad things about your previous employer(s), no matter what. This will not only reduce your chances of getting hired but also raise concerns regarding your professionalism.
The same goes for your former teachers and learning institutions.
14. Why Should We Hire You?
This question is your cue to emphasize your relevant skills for the position, your experience, and your passion for the role.
Additionally, you should mention how your abilities align with the company’s needs and demonstrate your enthusiasm for contributing to their success.
Also, don’t try to be funny here by saying something like “because you are hiring”.
15. Ask Questions
Too often, people see asking questions as an admission of weakness or something that will make them look stupid.
But, in fact, asking questions shows curiosity, humility, and even intelligence – it shows you’re smart enough to know what you don’t know!
With that said, do not ask personal questions.
After Interview Tips
1. Write Down Highlights from the Interview
Bring a small notepad and a pen with you to write down important information or how you think you did right after the interview.
| NOTE: Do not write anything during the interview process. |
2. Prepare for a Second Interview
Depending on the company you’re applying to or the specific role, you could be scheduled for a second interview.
Use this time to prepare for more technical questions related to the job functions.
If you’re invited to lunch for the second round, choose easy-to-eat food and avoid alcohol. If an offer is extended, it’s professional to request time to consider it.
3. Call-back Window
A common question by candidates is, “How long should I wait after an interview to call back?”
Unless the interviewer specifically mentioned a timeline, or it’s on the company’s hiring page, you should wait one to two weeks before reaching out.
Bonus Tips
Final Words
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially if it’s your first time. But you should understand that it’s okay to be a little nervous.
At CCI Training Center, in addition to our training programs, we also provide prep sessions with mock interviews to our students to ensure they meet their future employer’s expectations.
Just follow the above-mentioned tips and you’ve got this! Good luck!
