Helpful Job Interview Tips for Fresh Graduates

Going into your first job interview? These tips will help you prepare and know what to expect.

Many of us enter university to equip ourselves for the workplace by expanding our knowledge and know-how. Years later, you are now a fresh graduate with a degree in hand, about to put all of your hard work and dedication to the test. 

Your first job interview is an important milestone as you forge your career path--and like any significant life event, it requires preparation. While the thought of showing up for your first interview can be nerve-wracking, don't let your nerves get the best of you.

Pre-interview

Prepare at least a week before the big day. Do your research about the company if you have not already. Learn about their mission and vision, as well as the range of services they provide.

The goal here is not to memorise each detail as if you are studying for an exam. Instead, this is to give you an idea about the company's values, beliefs, and work environment. If you know anyone who works for the company, ask them how the workplace is like: is it more of a traditional office setting? How do bosses or upper management treat their employees? Does the company champion innovation and encourage collaboration? You may also check out JobStreet's company reviews to get firsthand accounts from current or previous employees.

Then, list down your motivating factors in a job and rank them accordingly. What do you value more, financial security or passion for your work? Do you prefer smaller, collaborative teams or are you more comfortable in hierarchical organisations? Are available training opportunities or work-life balance important to you?

Take the list and compare this to your initial research on your prospective employer. This information will help you assess if you are a cultural fit for the company, and can help shape your decision later on.

Before ending the interview, hirers usually give candidates a chance to ask their own questions. This is your opportunity to learn more about the company firsthand and show them that you are giving the job opening your careful consideration. Draft a list of questions you can ask your hirer during the interview. Should they offer the job to you, their answers can help you make a decision.

As your resume is what got your foot in the door, you should know it inside and out. Be ready for questions about the work experience, skills, and achievements you listed on your resume.

Study the job ad again and go over the job description. Does it list certain traits or skills that they would like to see in a candidate? Be ready to use these keywords when answering questions to reinforce that you are the best person for the job.

(Also read: Job search for fresh grads: 4 challenges you'll face)

Interview

Present your best and most professional self during the interview. Remember to dress as smartly as possible, in a manner befitting the company's brand personality. Research on the dress code: A financial or accounting firm may require a stricter business attire than that of a creative agency or a start-up. Stay on the safe side and stick to neutral, work-appropriate shades such as navy, grey, or beige. Your clothes should be well-pressed, and your hair neatly styled.

Err on the side of caution and aim to arrive 30 minutes earlier than your scheduled time. If you are bringing a vehicle, research beforehand on nearby car parks.

If you will be interviewed online, ensure that you look presentable on screen. Scout for the best location to set up your video call: It should be well-lit, quiet, and free of clutter. If you live with others, inform them of your scheduled interview ahead of time so they can keep noise at a minimum and refrain from interrupting. Charge and test all your equipment beforehand and have back-up devices within reach.

During the interview, expect hirers to ask you about past experiences and situations. Some examples would be, "Can you tell me about a time you failed?" or "What's the biggest obstacle you've had to overcome?"

Avoid giving generic responses. Instead, answer with honesty and self-awareness, providing details and concrete examples.

Answer questions using the STAR Method: Situation (What was the situation?), Task (What were you supposed to accomplish?), Action (What action or steps did you take?), and Results (What was the outcome?).

The STAR Method keeps your storytelling comprehensive yet organised and directly answers the hirer's questions.

Once the hirer asks you for any questions you would like to ask, take this opportunity to ask the questions you drafted beforehand. You may also clarify any details mentioned during the interview.

Post-interview

Remember to thank the hirer for his or her time. While waiting to hear from the company, reflect on your interview experience: What were your impressions of the hirer? What did the workplace look like? Was the hirer able to answer your questions about the company? How did you feel about the office culture?

Go back to the list you created during the pre-interview process: How did the company measure against your motivating factors? Does this first job prospect match what you feel would bring you passion and purpose? In the end, these should be able to help you decide better whether this would make for a good first job.

If you are still unsure of what you want in your first job, don't worry. There is always something to be learned from each job experience. Every career choice helps us better understand what matters to us in a job and gives us meaning and purpose.

How you fare during the interview is not indicative of your abilities and how you will eventually perform in the workplace. If you do not get the job, do not feel discouraged--take this as a learning opportunity for you to practice and improve your interview skills. This is one of many steps you will take as you start your professional journey.

If you do get the job, congratulations! You are now on your way to paving the career path you've envisioned for yourself.

At JobStreet, we want to help you find purpose and fulfilment at work as you embark on your career journey. Update your profile to reflect your preferred location, salary, and specialisation. Find #JobsThatMatter to you on JobStreet. The more you search, the more JobStreet understands your preferences and needs through AI learning--matching you with jobs that can bring you personal and professional fulfilment. For more expert insights and helpful tips on growing your career, visit the Career Resources Hub.

At JobStreet, we believe in bringing you #JobsThatMatter. As a Career Partner, we are committed to helping all jobseekers find passion and purpose in every career choice. And as the number 1 Talent Partner in Asia, we connect employers with the right candidates who truly make a positive and lasting impact on the organisation.

Discover Jobs That Matter. Visit JobStreet today.

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