Getting a job at university is something lots of students do. Whether it’s a part-time job to support your studies, an internship over the summer, or interviewing for a post-grad job, we all end up going on a job interview at some point or another.

It’s natural to be nervous for an interview, and we all feel the nerves no matter how many we go for. You need to prepare for it as best you can in order to make a good impression and hopefully secure that job.

Keep reading for our essential part time job interview tips every student should know.

Plan Ahead

So you’ve got the big interview and you’re excited about the prospect of this new job. But before you even arrive at the interview, make sure to prepare ahead of time.

Figure out where the office is and plan how to get there from your flat. Time how long it takes and how to get there. The last thing you want is to show up late on the day, it only makes a bad impression.

Research the Company

Before the interview, you need to put in some time to properly research the company you want to work for. What are their biggest clients? What are their biggest achievements? Have they won any awards lately?

Doing as much research as you possibly can on the company will show them that you are invested in them and truly care about this job opportunity.

Dress Properly

It might seem obvious, but it is imperative that you arrive at your interview dressed smartly and professionally. No joggers, t-shirts, or trainers should be worn to a job interview.

Find smart business attire to wear – for men go for a suit or a smart (ironed!) dress shirt, black trousers and smart black shoes. For women, a blouse, skirt/black trousers and black shoes will do the trick. Try to look as smart and professional as possible to make a good impression.

Print Out a Copy of Your CV and Cover Letter

It’s always a good idea to bring a copy of your CV and the cover letter you used to apply for this job with you to the interview. It’s useful to have so you can go over key points of experience and skillsets that will help you in this job.

You should also bring a list of references with you to provide the interview if they request. Try to bring a few copies of everything just in case there is more than one interviewer present. It always looks good to be prepared, so this is a great way to make a good impression too.

Be Polite and Friendly

Remember that this is a job interview, not a meeting with friends. Speak properly and be as polite as possible. Also, remember to be friendly not only with the interviewer but anyone else you meet as you go through the office.

Making a friendly impression on others who work there will show that you can fit in with the work culture there and could be a valuable addition to the team.

Send a Follow Up Email

When the interview is over and you’ve thanked them for their time, don’t just wait for them to get in touch with you. Try to send the interviewer an email the same or following day to thank them for meeting with you and reiterate your interest in the position again.

This will show them that you are serious about getting the job and they will be more likely to remember you over other candidates who don’t send follow-ups. It can also serve as a reminder for the interviewer to get back to you about whether or not you have got the job sooner rather than later.

These Are Essential Job Interview Tips Every Student Should Know

If you’ve got a job interview coming up, these tips will help you to make a good impression and hopefully help you land the job. Job interviews are always good to experience so don’t worry if you don’t land the job right away. Keep trying – the more you go on, the better you’ll get at them.

Need some advice on how to get a job as a student in the UK? Read our blog post for more great tips.

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