Top Tips for Candidates trying to find work

Top Tip for Candidates: Mastering Job Interview Preparation

It’s Friday, 29th August 2025 — and as we head into the last weekend of the month, many candidates will be gearing up for September interviews. With hiring managers keen to secure talent before the year-end rush, now is the time to sharpen up your interview skills.

Today’s Top Tip for Candidates is all about interview preparation. Whether it’s your first interview in years or your fifth this month, the right prep can transform nerves into confidence and help you stand out from the competition.

Research the Company Thoroughly

Go beyond the homepage—look at recent news articles, social media updates, and industry insights. Understanding the company’s current challenges and successes shows genuine interest and gives you conversation points.

Prepare Examples Using STAR

Employers want to see proof of your skills. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure answers that are clear, concise, and compelling. This works brilliantly for competency-based questions.

Dress the Part (Even for Online Interviews)

First impressions matter. Dressing professionally helps boost your own confidence as well as signalling respect for the opportunity. Even for Zoom interviews, avoid the temptation of “shirt on top, joggers below”!

Anticipate Questions and Prepare Your Own

Think through the role and what skills the employer is likely to probe. Equally, prepare questions to ask at the end—it shows curiosity and ensures the role is the right fit for you.

Ready to Ace Your Next Interview?

If you’ve got an interview lined up and want tailored coaching, Howard James Recruitment is here to help. From mock interview practice to personalised feedback, we can boost your confidence and performance.

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Landing your dream job starts with the right guidance. Whether you need help refining your CV, preparing for interviews, or navigating your job search, we’re here to help.

Book a free 30-minute consultation with our expert recruiters and get personalised advice to accelerate your career.

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