Careers Clinic: top tips for succeeding in a job interview

With the end of the academic year in much of Europe and the US upon us, we asked five experts for their number one tip for anyone going into the nerve-shredding experience that is a job interview. From the importance of research (and how to wield it) to flipping the interview on its head, here is what they said:

“Research the organisation’s activities and its future plans. Get a sense of the organisational structure and the challenges it is facing. Asking specific questions that illustrate you have done your research will set you apart from other candidates who have less information. When asking questions, be careful to be curious rather than critical. Your goal is to express excitement, not to suggest that you can fix what might be broken.”
Allison M. Vaillancourt, vice-president for organisational effectiveness, Segal, a North American human resources firm

“Be prepared − trite but true; interviewers want to hear you have done some research and why you are genuinely interested in the role and the organisation. Also, think about what makes you different and/or special.”
Michelle Wenham, chief people officer, TEDI-London, UK

“It’s always easier said than done, but this is your opportunity to interview the organisation, too. An interview is the first step in your professional relationship with a hiring manager (or supervisor) and that employer. It is your chance to make sure they align with your values, working style and career goals.”
Quila Cervelli, global employer branding manager, RMIT University, Australia

“Make sure you’re ready to talk about practical examples of your work. Theoretical answers can be unconvincing, whereas a description of a real example can stand out.”
Matthew Andrews, secretary and registrar, University of Gloucestershire, UK

“Do your homework – it’s as simple as that. Having a good understanding of the mission and vision of the institution, its achievements and its aspirations can give you a much better chance of success than simply trying to promote your own skills. The point is: how do your skills match where the institution is planning to go and how can you contribute? Also, when asked why you wish to join the institution, answering: “Because it’s close to where I live” or “Because I want to improve my salary” is not a good idea. And it does happen. You need to demonstrate a belief in the objectives of the organisation rather than simple and personal motivations.”
Yusra Mouzughi, president, Royal University for Women in Bahrain.