Interviews can feel a little nerve-wracking, can’t they? At Salling Search, we’ve helped countless professionals prepare for the big day, and we know the key to success is confidence. Whether it’s in-person or over video call, your interview is your chance to show the employer why you’re the right fit. Here’s how you can make a lasting impression and ace your next interview.
1️⃣ Preparation is Everything
Think of preparation as your secret weapon. Start by really understanding the role and how your experience matches what they’re looking for. Spend some time researching the company. Like what they stand for, what they’ve been up to recently, and what challenges they’re tackling. It’s also a great idea to prepare a few stories that showcase your achievements. A simple framework like STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) can help you structure your answers in a clear and compelling way.
2️⃣ Be Ready for Common Questions
Some questions come up in nearly every interview. Prepare for these with confidence:
"Tell me about yourself"
Craft a 1–2-minute pitch that highlights your career journey and key achievements.
"What are your strengths and weaknesses?"
Focus on strengths relevant to the job, and present a "weakness" with a proactive solution.
"Why do you want to work here?"
Show genuine enthusiasm and connect your skills with the company’s mission.
3️⃣ Let Your Body Language Speak
Your body language matters just as much as your words. Here’s how to keep it professional and positive:
Smile and make eye contact to show you’re engaged and confident. On video call, look at the camera, not the screen.
Sit up straight to project confidence. Avoid slouching, which can come across as disinterest.
Use hand gestures sparingly to emphasize points, but avoid fidgeting or overusing them.
4️⃣ Ask the Right Questions
When the interviewer says, “Do you have any questions for us?” use this opportunity to show you’re serious about the role. Some good questions include:
What does success look like in this position?
Can you tell me more about the team I’ll be working with?
What are the company’s goals for the next year, and how can this role help achieve them?
5️⃣ Don’t Forget to Follow Up
After the interview, take a few minutes to send a quick thank-you email. Reaffirm your interest in the position and mention something specific from the conversation to make it personal. A thoughtful follow-up can leave a great impression and set you apart from other candidates.
We’re here to help maritime professionals like you navigate every step of your career journey. We know interviews can be challenging, but with preparation and the right mindset, you’ll be ready to impress.
✨ Stay tuned for our next issue.
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