Can you recall your first job interview ever? Some people can, while for others, the image is a bit blurry. First-ever job interviews can either be memorable or forgettable because of right or wrong reasons. But, it is always a great learning opportunity even if you didn’t get the job. Today, there are thousands, maybe even millions of resources people can access online to learn more about job interviews like the do’s and don’ts and common questions interviewers ask.

I stumbled upon an article by the New York Times published in 1996 about how to ace a job interview. Back then, recruiters are just starting to integrate the internet in the recruitment process like engaging candidates through email. The tips were mostly general like considering the interview as a sales pitch and knowing when to just listen. I then read more articles and blogs on the same topic published in the 1990s and you know what, they are not that different to the ones we read today. There are similarities and differences of course. I realised the importance of timeless job interview tips, may it be your 1st, 2nd, 3rd or even 50th interview. With that, we asked our team members here in Quay Appointments, of different age brackets, on the advice they would give their younger selves for their first job interviews. We share those answers with all of you.

Job Interview Tips from Quay

“Be brave! This is an opportunity for you to share with everyone how good you are at what you do. Don’t forget you are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you. Is this the right job, company or person I would like to work with?” – Heidi Livingston, Executive Director

“Listen, don’t speak before the other person has completed speaking. Research the company you are interviewing with. Dress with pride (professional suit), know what your strengths and weaknesses are, have questions prepared for the interviewer.” – MaryJane Pollock, Senior IT Recruitment Consultant

“No matter how nerve wracking interviews may be to some people, I would say to always be yourself, always believe in yourself and that confidence is key. Soon enough you’ll find yourself in the shoes you always imagined yourself to be in!” – Sophia Marzolini, Recruitment Consultant

“It is not always what you know, it is also who you know. Also maybe do some research on the company and the culture.” – Sarah Bonzer, Recruitment Consultant

“Be yourself, just the best version, if someone doesn’t like you then you probably shouldn’t be working there anyway!” – Jessica Priebee, Practice Team Lead

“I would advise my younger self to just be yourself, don’t try to be someone you’re not.” – Kayley Quinn, Recruitment Consultant

“Firstly Breathe! Remember you are interviewing them as well, to see if this is the right role for you.” – Joanna Stott, Senior IT Recruitment Consultant”

“Practice makes perfect! You’re going to get a couple of No’s before you get a yes.” – Rachael King, Office Manager

For me, my advice to everyone is this – Be yourself! Actively listen, then when the moment permits, focus on what you can do well, this helps with confidence. Take part in the conversation, don’t be a bystander, this shows your enthusiasm. LIVE – LEARN – REPEAT. Finally, what is meant for you – won’t pass you.

Remember, mastering the art of job interview is real and you can do it.