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The top interview tips for international students

 

It’s time to talk interviews. They can be a source of nerves for many of us, but if approached with confidence, they can be a way of showing you’re the perfect fit for a role. Whether you have an interview for your course at university, a graduate role or a short-term internship, the preparation is the same. By following some of these tips, you’ll be prepared to show your talent to the interview panel and get started on your new career path. If you’re wondering where to start, we’ve got you covered...

Do your research
If there’s one thing that shows an interview panel that you mean business, it’s research. Find out what the role entails by making sure you’ve read the job description thoroughly. If there’s a phone number to call for questions, make the most of the opportunity and call to ask a little more about the role. There’s every chance an interviewer might remember those who called beforehand, so leave a good first impression. Just make sure you stick to asking about the role at this stage rather than using this as an opportunity to talk about your skills. When in the interview, show them your passion for the role while relating your skills to parts of the job description. Try to find out as much as you can about the company before your interview to help you find out how the role influences other teams and what the company culture is. By doing this, you’ll show your interest and will be able to impress the panel but bringing up the companies strategies if appropriate.

Sell your international status
Being an international student is a USP in itself. So, show the panel how your background could positively benefit their company. Having travelled to study shows that you can adapt to new surroundings and will have gained a cultural understanding that can help you communicate with a wide range of people. Use this to explain how your culturally diverse background, helps you to connect with others, makes you tolerant of difference and therefore an asset to their team.

Work out your relaxation method
Interviews can bring out your nerves, but the way to combat this is preparation and understanding what makes you tick. Think about how you respond in different situations and apply that to your interview prep. Do something that usually relaxes you in the lead up to an interview. Take an hour to yourself to read a book, meditate or go for a jog, try anything that will relax your mind. By releasing the tension you’ve built up you’ll be able to focus on the job at hand and impress your potential employer by just being you.

Preparation is everything
You’re bound to feel more nervous if you haven’t prepared well, slept enough or organised what you need to take with you. Make sure you have a smart outfit ready along with your interview kit. It sounds simple, and it is- but these simple steps will ready you for meeting an interview panel. Get your outfit and interview pack ready a few days in advance so you have time to find alternatives if necessary. Your interview pack should include everything you might need on the day.I.D or passport as required, your CV, the job description, your notes and some water.

If you’re looking for more careers advice or a global jobs board, register with GradLink for free advice and connections to employers across the globe.