Preparing for your job interview

So, your initial job application has succeeded and you've scored the important first interview.

If you’re unsure what to expect now, don’t panic. Here are some tried and tested techniques to help you nail the interview process and embark on the first step in your tax career.

Do your research

Apply your well-honed research skills and check out the organisation you’re meeting with.

Beginning with its company website, learn about the services it offers, the specific areas it operates in and who its clients are. Many corporate websites also have FAQs in the ‘Careers’ section.

You can even get some background information on the person you’ll be meeting with, by looking up their personal profile on the company website and on LinkedIn. This will help put you at ease and will demonstrate your genuine interest in the organisation during the interview.

Understand what they’re looking for

Go back and read the advertisement for the position you applied for. Make sure you have a good understanding of what the role entails and the key skills the organisation is looking for.

This will help you to prepare answers to potential questions – and identify queries of your own.

Brush up on industry news

At your interview, be prepared to show your knowledge of current business, industry and social issues that might impact your work.

Again, this will demonstrate your interest in the position and the sector – and can set you apart from other candidates.

Know yourself

If you're able to clearly explain what you’re looking for in a role and you’re confident in your strengths, you're bound to make a good impression.

Run through your resume and practice describing your long-term career goals and areas of interest.

Try to come up with specific examples, such as work experience you've done or industry events you've attended, to show your passion for the industry.

If you can highlight what you've learnt from these experiences, you’ll come across as confident, motivated and keen to learn.

Questions and answers

Preparing and rehearsing your answers to common questions will help you at your interview, in case nerves kick in or you’re not sure what to say. If you've already thought about your answers, you’ll always have a good fall-back response.

At the same time, remember that you’re also trying to find a job that’s a good match for you. Develop three to five questions you can ask the interview panel about the workplace culture, training and career opportunities and the type of person they want to hire. Then, on the day, be open and honest about yourself to ensure the job you land is the right fit, for both your personality and your goals.

Preparing well for your interview and putting your research ability, industry knowledge and people skills to work will help you to make a good impression on the day.
Good luck!

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