Candidate Hub
Interview Preparation
Virtual Interview Tips
Interview Best Practice
Questions to Ask
Psychometric Testing
Using AI in Your Job Search
Interview Preparation
Preparation is key to interview success. Therefore, before your interview day, it’s important to arm yourself with a range of details on the business – and people – you’re going to meet. The research you do can cover anything from financial projections and yearly plans to social culture and team structure, but as a starting point, we recommend that you look into the following:
Company mission, vision and values
Understanding what drives the business helps you show alignment and demonstrate that you’re not just a fit for the role but for the culture too.
Services/products
Knowing what the company offers allows you to speak credibly about their work and how your experience aligns with what they do.
Market perception
Researching how the company is viewed externally gives you insight into its reputation, tone and positioning.
Competitor benchmarking
Knowledge of who else is in their space shows commercial awareness and gives you a broader view of the challenges and opportunities they face.
Growth potential
Understanding their strategic goals or expansion plans helps you to ask thoughtful questions and speak to how you might contribute over the long term.
Interviewers’ LinkedIn profiles, career history and common ground
Knowing who you’ll be speaking with helps you prepare more relevant questions and build rapport through shared interests.
Virtual Interview Tips
Virtual interviews can feel more relaxed, but they must be considered just as vital as an in-person interview at the company’s offices, therefore preparation and professionalism are still important. A few simple steps can help you create the right impression – and stay focused on what really counts.
Interview Best Practice
A successful interview is about more than just answering questions well – it’s your opportunity to show how you think, communicate and align with the role and the company. The following examples of best practice can help you present yourself with greater clarity and confidence.
Questions to ask
An interview isn’t just about whether you fit the company – it’s about whether the company fits you. Asking questions gives you an opportunity to voice what matters to you. A blend of practical and strategic questions will ensure you stand out as someone who is prepared for the role that you’re applying for, whether that’s a short-term contract or a permanent position. While everyone has different priorities, some core topics to cover include:
- Team structure and development
- Growth/change plans
- Board/Director expectations
- Challenges of the role
- The interviewer’s reason for joining and their experiences with the company
- How they measure success
- Role expectations within the first 3-6 months
- Vision for team/division/function
Psychometric Testing
While not commonplace, some employers will use psychometric tests to interpret your personality, intelligence and aptitude through a series of verbal, numerical, spatial and situational assessments. The idea behind these tests is that they delve beyond what you say you can do to measure the kind of employee you might be or become. While you can’t be sure what psychometric evaluation you will receive, it makes sense to familiarise yourself with the format of such tests as many examples can be found online. This will ensure that you are more relaxed and confident should you be asked to complete one by an employer.
Using AI in Your Job Search
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly important to the job search process – used by candidates and employers alike. When used thoughtfully, AI can enhance your approach and boost your confidence. However, it’s important to strike the right balance. Over-relying on AI can sometimes dilute your unique voice or lead to less authentic applications – something some employers may be cautious about.
Below are some helpful tips on how to make the most of AI as a supportive tool in your job search, while ensuring that your personality and strengths still shine through.
Shape Your Future with Avencia
Ready for your next move, or simply planning ahead? Share your CV to be considered for opportunities across a wide range of disciplines. We’ll review your details and may be in touch if a role aligns with your skills and aspirations – supporting you as you take the next step in your career.