Fingernails and Shoes – Interview Top Tips

Many years ago, a friend of mine told me that before starting an interview, he would always look at the candidate’s fingernails and shoes. For him, it was all about attention to detail. That said, even flawless nails and the shiniest shoes are no guarantee that you will get the job. It’s all about preparation. Below are a few top tips, compiled by the team at Rubix M&E, which we think will help you land that perfect job.

Know the Company

Obviously, you’ll know the company – the name, where it’s based, the person you’re meeting – but make sure you put in some research and really understand the company. The interviewer will not expect you to be able to reel off every single detail of the latest year-end figures, but by going through the company website, blog and social media profiles, you will get an idea of what the company does, who its customers are, its main competitors and its latest news. You may even be able to find out a little more about your interviewer.

Know the Role

Like the point above, it sounds obvious, but make sure you have a thorough understanding of the role on offer and where it fits within the company. If there is anything you are unsure about, speak to your Rubix M&E consultant and we will do everything we can to clarify any uncertainties.

Make a Good Impression

First impressions count, so make sure you look the part and that you’re polite to everyone you encounter, from the receptionist to the interviewer.

You should assume that you will be judged by your appearance; after all, it’s a reflection of you. And remember, it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed. Put on your best suit, iron your shirt, polish your shoes, clean your fingernails, brush your teeth maintain eye contact and smile.

Stay Calm

It sounds simple, but everybody gets a little nervous in an interview, so make sure you do everything you can to avoid the unexpected. Get everything ready the night before; plan your journey and arrive early; speak clearly, avoiding too many “ums”; and listen to the questions.

Body Language

We’ve already mentioned a few positive forms of body language, but in a nutshell remember to smile, maintain eye-contact, adopt a good posture and show that you’re listening (occasionally nodding for instance). Don’t slouch, chew, mumble, fidget, touch your face or look inanely around the room (or even worse, down at your fingernails).

 Ask Questions

 You will always be asked if you have any questions – don’t say “no”. Make sure you have some insightful questions up your sleeve which will demonstrate to the interviewer that you are interested in the position. Avoid questions about money or holidays and focus instead on the role for which you’re applying, company’s future and opportunities for you within the company.

Follow Up

As well as thanking the interviewer on the day, follow up the interview with a thank you note within twenty-four hours of the interview. If you are interviewed by more than one person, send each of them a note. This gives you an opportunity to not only reiterate you interest in the role, but also to provide any information or details which you may have forgotten to provide during the interview itself.

The team at Rubix M&E will guide you through the interview process, but we hope that the above top tips provide you with some pointers to help you land your dream job. Above all, stay positive.