Got an interview? Now prepare with these interview tips
Preparing for a job interview in the consulting space is never easy, but if you put in the right planning and preparation, you have every opportunity to land your next job! So how to plan? Below are my key themes to focus on when preparing to ace your next interview:
Dress appropriately and make a good first impression: I cannot emphasise this enough, so much of the hard work has been done to secure an interview, so do not waste your chance by not taking care of something which requires no talent. First impressions count! Dressing professionally shows that you respect the interviewer and the company. Wear conservative clothing, such as a suit or blazer, and avoid anything too flashy or revealing.
Be punctual: Another part of the interview process which requires no talent. Arrive on time for your interview, or even a few minutes early (but not more than 10 minutes early!). Being late can create a negative first impression and show that you are not reliable. Plan your route in advance, know the connections you need to take or if it is during peak hour, allow for enough time for your Uber or taxi to get through any traffic issues. If you arrive early, wait downstairs at a coffee shop and think about your answers. Don’t be late!
Know your interviewer: Before the interview, do your homework and research the interviewer. Look them up on LinkedIn or the company website to learn about their background and interests. This information can help you tailor your responses to their interests and demonstrate that you have taken the time to prepare for the interview. Also, ask your recruiter for background information. Any good recruiter will know the interviewer’s personality traits and communication style.
Know the company: It is essential to research the company and understand their values and mission statement. This information can help you align your answers with the company's objectives and demonstrate that you are a good fit for the role. Additionally, knowing the company's recent projects or initiatives can help you bring relevant examples to the table during the interview. An easy trick to plan for interviews is to type the company name into Google and click on the news tab, what has been happening this past 24 hours? Past week? Past month? Can you tie this into your answers or general small talk. Most people don’t do this at interview, so this is a great way to separate yourself from other candidates in the market. Be prepared to be asked, “why do you want to work for us?”, make sure you have a well thought out and precise answer.
Use situational or outcome focused answers: Consulting firms want to know how you approach problem-solving. Use situational or outcome-focused answers to demonstrate how you have solved a problem, driven revenue, or broken into a new account. Be specific and use examples from your previous work experiences to illustrate your skills and expertise. Research the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method.
Ask relevant questions: Asking questions shows that you are interested in the role and the company. However, make sure that you do not ask questions that have already been answered during the interview or are easily available on the company website. Ask insightful questions that show your curiosity and your ability to think critically. If you have an interview and you are having trouble thinking of suitable questions to ask your interviewer, feel free to speak to me and I can give you a list.
Follow up with a thank you email: After the interview, it is essential to follow up with a thank you email. This is another opportunity to separate you from other applicants in the process and an excellent way to demonstrate to your potential employer your writing skills and show how you might interact with clients in the future. Keep your email brief and to the point, thanking the interviewer for their time, expressing your interest in the role and inform them you are happy to further elaborate on any answers the interviewer might seek.
Be assured, but not overconfident: Show confidence in your skills and experience, but avoid coming across as arrogant or overconfident. Be willing to admit when you don't know something and show a willingness to learn and grow in the role.
Be authentic: Don't try to be someone you're not. Be true to yourself and your values and show the interviewer who you are as a person and a professional. Being authentic can help you build trust with the interviewer and show that you are a good fit for the company culture.
Be respectful at all times: Show respect to everyone you interact with during the interview process, from the receptionist to the interviewer. Being polite, courteous, and respectful can make a lasting impression and show that you are a professional who is easy to work with. You won’t be surprised how many interviewers will ask the receptionist, what sort of impression the candidate made when arriving to the office.
Be mindful of your online presence: Many consulting firms now use social media and online search tools to research candidates before inviting them to an interview. Make sure that your online presence is professional and reflects your skills and expertise. Remove any unprofessional posts or photos that may harm your chances of getting the job.
In conclusion, preparing for an interview in the consulting space requires research, preparation, and attention to detail. By following these tips, you can demonstrate your skills and experience, show your interest in the role and the company, and make a positive impression on the interviewer. If you are unsure what to do, ask your recruiter for help, this is what they are here for. Good luck!
