Search for a Job Now

Once you've mastered the fine art of résumé writing, you'll soon find it's time to put your interview skills to work.

The Scotiabank Group has interviewed hundreds of thousands of prospective employees, so we know a thing or two about what it takes to make a positive first impression.

One thing is for sure: we want to see your very best side.

Seven Tips to Show us the Very Best You Have to Offer:

1. Get a head start
   Arrive a few minutes early and be prepared to demonstrate your positive attitude, enthusiasm and energy right from the get-go.
   
   
2. Establish an instant rapport
   Don't wait for the most challenging questions to show us what you've got. If your interviewer engages in small talk, seize this ice-breaking opportunity to make a positive first impression by being open and enthusiastic.
   
   
3. Stick with the agenda
   Your interviewer will probably run through the agenda to highlight what will be covered, how long it will take, when to ask questions, etc. Respect the agenda as well as your interviewer's time.
   
   
4. Relate your attributes to the position
   If you're not given an overview of the position at the start of your interview, request one - and listen carefully. This overview will most likely highlight what the successful candidate will need to possess in the way of skills and abilities. When answering questions, relate your attributes accordingly.
   
   
5. Be prepared to share
   You may be asked to share past experiences with the interviewer. For example, you may be asked to describe a situation in which you applied your knowledge to overcome obstacles or problems. Or you may be asked to describe a situation in which you unexpectedly had to take on a leadership role and overcome a challenging situation.
   
   Ideally, you should:
   1. Briefly describe the situation you found yourself in
   2. Summarize the actions you took
   3. State the outcome based on your actions
      
      
6. Get your questions answered
   A job interview works both ways, so prepare to ask as well as answer any questions - both those you may have prepared in advance and those that arise during your interview. Don't hesitate to refer to a written list or record point-form answers.
   
   
7. Leave a lasting impression
   Maintain your enthusiasm right through to the end. Smile, shake hands firmly and be sure to thank your interviewer for his or her time. Don't hesitate to say, “I hope we'll have the opportunity to work together in the future.”