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Engage with people on your way to the interview, talk to someone on the phone, have chat with the barista when buying your coffee, ask them about their day. When you arrive at reception talk to the receptionist, ask their name, ask them how it’s like to work here, try to normalise the situation as much as possible.
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Have ‘small talk’ talking points prepared beforehand so that in your initial engagement with the interviewers i.e. in the corridor, you’re able get the conversation moving and build rapport.
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Research the interviewers before the interview i.e. LinkedIn, twitter, find out more about their interests to help you with point
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Have a positive mindset, see the whole process as a win win, by getting out of your comfort zone with point 1-3 you are investing in the development of your social skills which will help you outside of the interview environment. Therefore whether you’re successful in the interview or not you are still improving.
Farhan Raja
I'm Farhan, the Founder and Coach at JobInterviewology.com, one of the world’s leading Career and interview Coaching specialists. Bringing over a decade of industry experience and a passion for guiding individuals in their career journeys. As an Interview and Career Coach, I've authored the eBook '10 Simple Steps to CV & Resume Success,' directed a leading UK CV writing specialist, and pioneered the iPREP interview coaching methodology.
My career and interview coaching has spanned over 10 years across diverse industries, from IT giants like Google and Microsoft to vital sectors like Civil Service & NHS, Pharma, Finance, Engineering, Automotive, Construction, Logistics, Banking, and Management Consulting. I've had the privilege of assisting professionals in presenting their best selves, and targeting roles at renowned companies like Amazon, GSK, EY, Shell, Rolls Royce and more.
