Enternships Blog

Interview Advice for Interns Posted on Friday 18 February 2011 at 09:43AM by trevorginn

I have recently been interviewing for a key position in my start up company.  The experience not only brought on terrible flashbacks of milkround interviews, but also made me think about impressed, or failed to impress me about different candidates. Here are my thoughts.

Make a good impression

Turn up to the interview on time and take care over your personal appearance.  Most startups won’t have any kind of dress code, but to play safe and be smart.  In the interview maintain eye contact and think about your body language.  It does not take a psychologist to understand that slouching or folding your arms does not make a interviewee look relaxed and confident.

Be super keen

It is very important in an interview to display an interest in the position and the company.  Show that you are impressed with the company and its services and demonstrate that you have done your homework about what they do (see preparation below).  Give the impression that this is a position you really, really want.

Prepare

Prepare answers to usual interview questions e.g. why do you want this job, where do you see yourself in 5 years time.  It is also vital to research the company and build up a picture of their business.  Think about:

• What are their main products and/or services
• What is the history of the firm and who are the main people
• What are the major challenges they face?  Many start ups will not yet be profitable and will have a far from proven business model.

With this information think up some searching questions for the interviewer.  Asking informed questions will make you looked switched on and interested.

Be likeable

Personal chemistry is extremely important in an interview, especially in a startup situation where teams are small.  Show that you are likeable, easy to manage and would fit in.  Be enthusiastic about the role and the company, and appear motivated about how you can contribute to its success.

Never be negative about people or past experiences.  In his book, 59 seconds, Richard Wiseman explains that negative statements tend to make people think less of the person making the comment.  Appear positive and self confident.  Don’t ramble.

Follow up

A quick follow up email thanking the interviewer for their time is a nice touch and gives an opportunity to restate your suitability for the job.

Trevor Ginn is founder of the online baby and nursery shop Hello Baby and internet marketing agency vendlab.  You can follow his antics on his blog or at @trevorginn

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