Interview Tips For IT Jobs in Sydney (or Australia)
In Australia’s competitive IT industry, interviews can be a nerve-wracking affair. Having placed thousands of candidates in IT jobs, we’re more equipped than most to offer insight and advice on what employers are looking for in staff at the interview stage. Here are some of our tips.
Arrive on time - or a little early
“Right time, right place, right people equals success” - Idries Shah
It goes without saying that you shouldn’t be late for your interview. You wouldn’t believe how many people we’ve worked with that have missed opportunities because they were late for their big chance. Of course, sometimes things are unavoidable, but if you’re really keen to make a good impression, you should be planning for the worst possible traffic and transport scenario. That said, you shouldn’t be arriving more than 5 minutes early for your interview. Arriving too early and lingering around the reception makes everyone a little uncomfortable and can suggest you don’t quite get the realities of a busy schedule.
Ask interesting questions
“Judge a man by his questions rather than his answers” - Voltaire
Questions are an important way to encourage a clear communication process between you and the employer. Ask for more information about the role, your expectations, the team you’ll be working with, as well as the opportunities for growing the scope of the role and the trajectory for professional development... Being conscientious about the details is a good way to establish your own worth and expectations in the interview process, as well as ensuring it’s actually a job and a company you’ll want to commit to.
Dress for the job you want
"The armor to survive the reality of everyday life" - Bill Cunningham
While IT positions don’t require a black tie or a ball gown, remember that it’s always best to overdress for a position. Studies have shown that your clothing and grooming goes a long way toward contributing toward a positive first impression. Think about the industry, the role and the company… What sort of expectations might they have? What would you be wearing on an everyday basis? Whatever the answer is, up the ante by about 10% for your big interview.
Do as much research as possible
“No research without action, no action without research” - Kurt Lewin
You’re experienced, educated and ready to turn their IT world upside down - but are they convinced you want to work there? With so many quality IT candidates in the market, more and more companies are looking for the intangible ‘X factors’ that will set you apart. Whether you’re the right cultural fit and proactive will help to demonstrate you’re a great candidate in person as well as on paper, and it can be shown by simply doing some research before you head in. What’s the history of the company? What can you find out about your interviewer on LinkedIn before you head in? Has there been anything in the press lately about the company? Spending a little time doing some homework will show you’ve done your due diligence and you’re committed to the company from the get-go.
Prepare to talk about your weaknesses
“Every weakness contains within itself a strength.” - Shusaku Endo
If you’re lucky, your CV fits the job brief perfectly and the job is a done deal. More realistically, however, your skills and experience fit in some ways and don’t fit in others. Review the job description or ad and really try to consider things from the company’s perspective – where would you be concerned if you were in their position? Maybe you’re not used to working in teams this big, or perhaps you’ve worked in industries a little different… It’s completely normal for you to fall a little short in some capacity, but it’s important you have an answer for any gaps in your CV that will alleviate any concerns, whether that means emphasising certain parts of your work history or playing down others.
Get some help from our expert team!
“Not for ourselves alone are we born” - Cicero
When it comes to placing IT jobs, Motion Recruitment act as your mentor to the interview process. We’ll be able to assist you review your own professional history and skillset, as well as working toward the specific needs of the client and their goals. Explore our listed jobs and reach out for a chat to talk through your future in the Australian IT market anytime.
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