IT Jobs / 8 tips for a successful interview

 

Although the current job market is favorable to candidates, particularly in the IT sector, you must make a good impression with recruiters and stand out if you want to land your dream job.

 

You must show your potential, your good attitude, and your motivation, right from the first phone call with the recruiter.

 

Before you start your IT job search, make sure your application stands out of the crowd to grab the recruiter’s attention. Make sure you prepare a good, up-to-date CV and optimize your LinkedIn profile.

 

Once you’ve been selected, here are some tips for a successful IT job interview :

1- Pay attention to your presentation

Take care of your appearance and body language. Dress appropriately and make sure your attire is professional, in line with the company’s activity and the position you are applying for. Don’t forget to smile and pay close attention to your non-verbal skills. For a remote interview, sit in a quiet place without distractions. Make sure the light is in front of you (avoid having your back to a backlit window) and that the screen is placed at the right height.

 

2- Be punctual

In person or by videoconference, be punctual! Recruiters attach great importance to punctuality. Arriving a few minutes early is always good. If you’re in a virtual meeting, log in a few minutes earlier. Double-check your internet connection, then test your camera and microphone beforehand. If the interview is face-to-face, validate the route the day before the interview and plan for traffic in case of rush hour. If you expect to be late, call the recruiter to let them know.

 

3- Familiarize yourself with the company

Find out about the company that is recruiting, its sector of activity, its history, its values, and the position targeted. Also visit their website and social media. Check out the profiles of the company’s managers or employees on LinkedIn. Don’t hesitate to ask your contacts for information about the company, the position, and the projects (your network is very valuable! 😉)

 

4- Know your resume well

Practice describing your background and your experiences point by point. It’s your résumé! You must know it by heart. Memorize important dates from your resume and details of any positions you have held. Give examples of the projects to which you have contributed. Speak specifically about your education, certifications, and technical skills. Make the connection between your training and your experiences and the position you are aiming for.

 

5- Be well prepared

Practice introducing yourself, whether in front of someone or even in front of the mirror. Prepare in advance your answers to common questions and technical questions that the recruiter may ask you. Here are some examples:

• Professionally, what is your greatest strength?
• What sets you apart from others?
• Explain a weakness that you would like to improve.
• Where do you see yourself in five years?
• Tell me about a project you are proud of
• What is your greatest professional achievement?
• What do you know about the position, company, etc.?
• Why did you choose our company?

 

You can also simulate a job interview with Google’s Interview Warmup platform. This tool allows you to practice answering interview questions and analyze your answers.

 

Recruiters notice well-prepared and, above all, interested candidates. Being well prepared will allow you to be less stressed, to be more confident and to make a good impression with the recruiter. You will then have a better chance of being hired!

 

6- Stay honest

Highlight your strengths and previous experiences, while being honest and humble. Even though IT jobs are plentiful and IT professionals are in high demand, it’s still important not to be pretentious if you don’t want to miss out on the best opportunities. Also, don’t be so modest that you underestimate yourself. Be confident and answer the recruiter’s questions sincerely. If you ever feel stressed, the best way to relax the atmosphere is to tell the recruiter.

 

7- Show your interest

Listen and show that you are paying attention. Never cut the other person off. Answer the questions and let your interlocutor pick up the thread. If you’re wondering whether you have given too much details or not enough, the best thing is to ask the question directly: Would you like more details? Would you like an example?

 

8- Ask questions

Don’t be afraid to ask recruiters questions about the company or the position. Being curious shows your interest and motivation. At the end of the interview, you can ask how soon you will have a return and do not hesitate to follow up with the recruiter if you haven’t heard back after the scheduled date.

 

Need more advice? Do not hesitate to contact our team of hunters who will be happy to guide you in your IT job search, but above all to coach you well for your interview with our employer clients!

 

Good luck 😉