5 Job Interview Tips to Make a Great Impression

When it comes to nailing a job interview, first impressions are paramount. You want to show the interviewer that you’re not only qualified for the position, but that you’re also confident, personable and easy to work with. TRS Recruitment Consultants have interviewed hundreds of candidates across Melbourne and Perth for roles in industries ranging from mining, manufacturing, trades & services, to architecture & design. Our team knows exactly what it takes to be the one who stands apart from other applicants and lands the role. We’ve compiled the best interview tips in Australia as well as job interview don’ts.

Here are our top five interview tips on how to nail a job interview:

1. Dress for success

Wear clothes that are professional and appropriate for the job you’re interviewing for. Avoid clothes that are uncomfortable or inappropriate for that particular company’s culture and environment. If you are comfortable and feel confident in your presentation this will reflect in the way you present yourself in the interview. For more tips read our in-depth guide on what to wear to an interview.

2. Arrive early

Being late for an interview is one of the worst things you can do. Not only does it show that you’re not punctual, but it also makes a bad first impression. So, how early should you arrive to a job interview? Plan to arrive at least 10-15 minutes early so that you have time to settle in and review your materials. Make accommodations for traffic or unexpected delays so that you are prepared for any disruption. Showing up early and being ready to begin the interview on time will ensure that you don’t start the interview on the back foot.

What if the interview is online? Even if you’re meeting on Zoom, punctuality is just as important. Make sure you’re set up in a quiet location with your laptop or phone 5 minutes before the start time so that you can join the meeting ready to go.

3. Research the company

Do some research on the company and the job description beforehand so you can ask focused, informed questions that show your interest in working there. Research their industry, mission and values, and get a feel for their company culture. You can do this by visiting their website, reading their social media posts or talking to those in your network who are familiar with the company. This will also help calm any pre-interview jitters since you’ll feel more confident in knowing what to expect. You may also be able to find their seek interview questions online to give you an idea of what they will ask on the day.

4. Be prepared to ask and answer questions

Be ready to describe your qualifications, skills and experience and answer related questions. The company wants to know what you can offer them and what unique skills you possess, so be prepared to communicate what you bring to the table. Indeed suggests you prepare both strong answers and smart questions to set you apart from the competition. Be prepared to answer common interview questions by exploring top search terms and having some example answers up your sleeve.

Standard job interview questions in Australia include:

Tell me about yourself
Why are you interested in this position?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Can you tell me about a time when you faced a challenge at work?

When answering questions, the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) can be helpful in organizing your thoughts. This involves describing a specific work situation, the task you were trying to accomplish, the actions you took to achieve this goal, and the results of your efforts. By using this method, you can provide concrete examples that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to thrive in various work situations.

5. Be confident

One of the most important things you can do in an interview is to be confident. This doesn’t mean that you should be cocky or arrogant, but rather that you should believe in your abilities and present yourself as a competent candidate. If you don’t think you’re qualified for the job, chances are the hiring manager won’t either. Don’t be afraid to outline your career goals, salary expectations and hours per week you’re prepared to work.

Believe in yourself and let your confidence shine through, allowing yourself to ask questions or elaborate where you need to. Asking questions and making eye contact with potential employers shows that you’re truly interested in the role and the company. It also allows you to get more information that can help you determine if the job is the right fit for you. Prepare a few questions in advance so that you don’t blank when the interviewer asks if you have any questions for them.

By following these tips, you can make a great impression and increase your chances of getting the job.

Find a job with TRS Resourcing

As one of the leading Recruitment Agencies in Melbourne and Perth, TRS Resourcing can help you land the next big role in your career. We offer white and blue collar labour hire, with access to job openings within many thriving Australian businesses.

Find a job today by viewing our Jobs page or signing up for Job Alerts with TRS Resourcing’s recruitment agency online!

To speak with TRS Labour Hire Recruitment Consultants, please contact the following offices:

Labour Hire Melbourne 03 9917 3545

Labour Hire Perth 08 6205 3570

5 Job Interview Tips