What Interviews Tell Employers About You

Stepping out of the university and into the workforce entails a ton of interviews. Newly graduates are bound to shape their career and their skills. In the case of the employers, it’s a way for them to train and scout for talents.

Interviews are a chance for you, a potential employee, to show off your charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent. On top of that, you need to demonstrate your skills, a positive attitude, and willingness to learn.

We know how nerve-wracking an interview can be, and so we are here to help you take a peek inside the process. Here, you’ll acquire insight into the philosophy behind interviews and how you can ace them without a sweat.

Why Do Interviews Exist?

The purpose of an interview is to let employers determine whether you are the right fit for the company. It’s not only about your degree and work background, but also about whether or not you will fit in with the company culture.

Employers look for these five things in a prospective employee:

1. Feel whether you’ll fit in with the team
2. Get a sense of your personality, character, work ethic, and general motivations
3. Test your knowledge and expertise in the field you’re applying for
4. Determine whether you are who they made out to be based on your CV or resume
5. Check your enthusiasm for the role and the company

As the recruiter finds out the answers to these things, you only really need to worry about these three essential questions:

1. Why do you want this role?
2. Why do you want to work for this company?
3. Why should they hire you?

How to Ace the Interview

Recruiters, especially Human Resource managers, are tasked with reading the body language of candidates. They must also interpret language subtext and connotations, as well as get a general feel of someone.

Here are three things you can do to help show you are the right candidate:

1. Dress Well

It’s an interview, so try to look formal and your best. Remember that it’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed in these situations. First impressions matter! The general look must be exuding professionalism to show that you care enough to get this role.

2. Smile and Show a Positive Character

Nobody wants to work with a miserable person. And even if you aren’t one but look like one during the interview, the recruiter would be less inclined to hire you, no matter how miserable-looking they are.

Smile naturally and exude confidence as much as you can–but not too much. Remember that Cheshire Cat on Alice in Wonderland? Yes, don’t do that. Simply show that you are happy to be getting an interview and excited to show off your skills. Happiness is contagious, you know.

3. Be Prepared

Make sure that you know enough about the company, the role, and yourself. Recruiters will ask you questions about your profile as part of the assessment process. They’ll also ask you what you know about the company and, of course, the position you’re applying for.

Preparation makes you look professional and diligent, and it’ll also highlight your dedication, motivation, and skills. So, before the interview, ensure that you are fully ready.

Conclusion

First interviews can be particularly challenging for new grads, and since you don’t have enough experience in the workforce yet, the least you can do is research. You can also ask family members or friends to grill you about your CV or resume, much like an interview, so you’ll be ready for the real thing.

The UK Careers Fair hosts award-winning recruitment events in London, Glasgow, Newcastle, Liverpool and Southampton. As the country’s leading provider of job and career fairs, we help recruiters scout for talents and candidates to build their careers. We also provide workplace environment and careers advice. If you are looking to hold a recruitment event, get in touch with us today!