In Nigeria, the challenge of landing a good job awaits every graduate. Not even those who graduate with good results are immune to this fear.
Finishing school and staying jobless for many years have become not just the story of many graduates, but a sad reality that awaits those still studying.
Oftentimes, the issue is not always the absence of jobs.
You see, many get to the interview stage, but sadly, “we will get back to you,” is all they get.
There are a few things you need to know or perhaps, do, before heading out for an interview.
Worry not, we got you covered.
Here are some key interview tips to help you succeed:
Research the Company
Understand the organisation: Learn about the company’s history, values, mission, culture, and recent developments. Familiarise yourself with its products, services, and key leaders.
Know the role: Review the job description and identify the required skills and responsibilities. Be ready to explain how your experiences align with the position.
Prepare Your Answers
Common questions: Practice answers to frequently asked interview questions such as:
– “Tell me about yourself.”
– “Why do you want to work here?”
– “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
– “Describe a time you faced a challenge at work and how you overcame it.”
–STAR method: Structure answers to behavioral questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide clear and concise examples.
Dress Appropriately
Dress for the company culture: Aim for professional attire that fits the company’s work environment. If in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
Be comfortable and confident: Make sure your clothes are well-fitted and that you’re comfortable moving around in them.
Showcase Your Skills and Experience
Match your skills to the job: Demonstrate how your skills, experiences, and accomplishments can contribute to the company’s goals.
Provide evidence: Whenever possible, support your answers with specific examples, numbers, and achievements to show your impact in previous roles.
Ask Insightful Questions
-Prepare questions for the interviewer: Show your interest and enthusiasm by asking thoughtful questions, such as:
– “What’s the company culture like?”
– “How do you define success for this role?”
– “What are the immediate challenges someone in this position would face?”
– Listen actively: When the interviewer answers, show that you are engaged by nodding, making eye contact, and responding appropriately.
Body Language and Communication
Posture and eye contact: Maintain good posture, sit up straight, and make eye contact to appear engaged and confident.
Speak clearly: Avoid speaking too quickly or too softly. Be mindful of your tone and ensure you communicate with confidence but not arrogance.
Smile and stay positive: A friendly, approachable demeanor can make a strong impression.
Be On Time
Arrive early: Aim to arrive 10-15 minutes before the interview time to show punctuality and respect for the interviewer’s time.
Plan ahead: Know the interview location, the format (in-person, phone, video), and ensure you have all necessary materials (resume, portfolio, etc.).
Follow Up
Send a thank-you note: After the interview, send a brief thank-you email within 24 hours.
Express gratitude for the opportunity, reiterate your interest in the position, and highlight a key point from the interview.
Be Yourself
Authenticity matters: Be honest about your strengths, areas of growth, and professional experiences. Authenticity helps interviewers assess your fit for the company and role.
Also Read: Key Skills For High-Paying Office Jobs In 2025
Confidence without arrogance: Don’t be afraid to talk about your achievements, but balance this with humility and willingness to learn.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Stay calm under pressure: Sometimes, interviewers may ask tricky or unexpected questions. If you’re unsure, take a moment to gather your thoughts and answer the best you can.
Have a plan for handling technical issues: If your interview is virtual, test your technology (microphone, camera, internet connection) beforehand.
If there’s a problem during the interview, remain calm and politely address it.
By preparing in advance, staying positive, and presenting yourself confidently, you can significantly increase your chances of leaving a lasting impression and securing the job.
