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Interview Boss

Interview Boss

226 episodes — Page 2 of 5

S5 Ep 10Waiting to hear back? Should you use your connections?

You’ve applied, you’ve interviewed… and now you’re waiting. But should you be doing more? If you have contacts at the company, is it worth reaching out to move things along - or does that risk coming off as pushy?This week, Sarah and Emma answer a listener question about using your network after an interview. They discuss when and how to strategically tap into your connections - without making it feel transactional or overly aggressive.If you’ve ever wondered how to navigate networking in the follow-up stage, this episode will give you some great advice.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Sarah “Hi Emma and Sarah. I stumbled across your podcast in the throes of my job-hunting desperation after stuffing up a couple of interviews and convincing myself I was unemployable. I'd listened to a few overwhelmingly intense podcasts on interview techniques (which left me feeling even more hopeless) when you guys popped up in my search like a couple of absolute rays of sunshine. Your practical, cheerful advice was incredibly helpful, and I am so glad I found you (and my dog appreciates all the extra-long walks she got while I finished as many episodes as possible)! I now have an awesome job that I absolutely love and want to thank you so very much for creating Interview Boss and helping me get there. You guys really are the bosses! Cheers, Sarah.”🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Mar 26, 202517 min

S5 Ep 9Can they ask that? How to handle illegal job interview questions

What should you do if an interviewer asks you a question that feels… off? Maybe it’s about your age, marital status, or even your health. In many places, these types of questions are actually illegal - but they still happen more often than you’d think.This week, Sarah and Emma break down which personal questions are typically off-limits in a job interview and why they shouldn't be asked in the first place. They also discuss why some interviewers ask these questions - sometimes out of ignorance rather than bad intent - and how you can handle them professionally.You’ll learn four different ways to respond, from smoothly redirecting the conversation to calling it out directly (if you’re comfortable). Whether you want to answer, deflect, or set a boundary, this episode will give you the tools to handle tricky questions with confidence!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Lauren “Hi Emma and Sarah, thank you so much! I’ve been applying to jobs for over a year now with no luck in even getting an interview, so when a job requisition finally came through where I had connections to I knew there was no room for error. I’m an industrial engineer by background but my dream job had been to use my data analytics and process improvement skills to support a cause I care deeply about: climate change. Environmental Sustainability jobs are competitive and tough to come by these days and recruiters typically don’t seem to be able to connect the dots of what I had been doing as an engineer to being a sustainability analyst although I knew I was qualified, especially after completing a graduate certificate program and volunteering through environment-focused groups. Although I initially got the auto-rejection email within a day of applying, I used my connections to get my resume and cover letter in front of the hiring manager who gave me the interview. While doing a mock interview with my bf after prepping on my own for a day, I was in trouble. I had the rambling problem and struggled to stay out of the weeds of my project while conveying how much I accomplished. Also many of my projects were ongoing so trailed off without a real impactful end. I listened to SO MANY of your podcast episodes while running and driving home from work and after every episode I learned so much. The “damsel in distress, prince rescue” story concept really helped me focus. I wrote down all my major projects and summarized them into three bullet points with this format in mind. I even prepared small talk like you guys suggested which totally made me feel more confident and avoided an awkward long walk from the front lobby to the hiring manager’s office. The interview went amazingly, and I knew we hit it off immediately. During the process another job came up with a more competitive salary and remote/hybrid flexibility for the same Sustainability analyst position within my own company. I ended up getting BOTH jobs! Can you believe it? Two options for my dream job??? All thanks to you two!”🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Mar 19, 202526 min

S5 Ep 8Signs your interviewer has checked out (and how to get them back)

You’re mid-answer in an interview, and suddenly - you notice a shift. The interviewer’s gaze drifts, their nods stop, and you can tell… you’ve lost them. But what do you do next?This week, Sarah and Emma break down the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs that your interviewer has checked out and, more importantly, how to reel them back in - without completely derailing your response.They’ll share practical strategies like cutting to the chase with a quick summary, checking in with the interviewer mid-answer, and keeping things engaging without oversharing. Plus, they’ll cover when to push through and when it’s okay to adjust your approach.If you’ve ever worried about talking too much or losing your audience in an interview, this episode is packed with tactical tips to help you stay in control and leave a strong impression!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Coral “Thank you Thank you Thank you *Bows down* Honestly can't put into words how much your podcast supported my journey to finding my new job. I followed the playlist discussing how to manage behaviour questions (my nemesis) and how to best structure answers. I tend to go blank and inwardly panic, hence I don't demonstrate my best and true abilities and self. I love your 'just tell a story' - so simple and yet effective. I found your guidance humerous, gentle and easy to follow. I put in the work and made my notes hinting to my must talk about 'best bits' (loved that). After the interview which included a 10 minute presentation I was told they'd be in touch. Including the weekend I had to wait 4 days. I was contacted by HR to invite me to a follow up interview *blood runs cold* but I had packed away all my interview prep and didn't realise there was a second stage. Felt disheartened that I had to give it my all again- what if this second time they don't like me and I don't make the cut! I turned my mindset around- there was so much else going on which contributed to a very challenging week but I squeezed in some extra research for the role (homeless prevention officer- complex needs), went in with my renewed notes for my safety net and put on my best effort. They called me later that day to offer me the job!!!!!! The feedback was great- they said I scored really highly on both interviews and they would love to have me on their team. So happy- ticks all the boxes I needed- hybrid, higher pay, local, plus benefits. Thank you once again- you are transforming lives with your guidance and support. I have recommended your podcast already to friends.”🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Mar 12, 202520 min

S5 Ep 7Why being 'memorable' in an interview ISN'T a good thing!

Trying to stand out in an interview might seem like a smart strategy — but it can actually backfire!This week, Sarah and Emma unpack why your goal shouldn't be to be 'memorable'. From real-life candidates who stood out for all the wrong reasons (think overconfidence, robotic responses, and even questionable sobriety) to what actually makes a great interview, we cover it all.The best candidates don’t shock or surprise their interviewers — they make hiring managers feel confident in their ability to do the job. No gimmicks needed! 🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Kate who bought us 5 coffees!“Thanks to your clear and easy to follow advice I kept applying and found a job! This was after working in the same Graphic Design role within the same company for 15 years! I was discouraged at first as I thought that I had the experience to back up the job ads but it’s a competitive industry and after making specific resumes (and portfolios for each kind of job e.g. Graphic Designer in Healthcare, Local Government etc), I listened to your episode about not spending too much time working and reworking each resume - and it worked! The job I ended up accepting I applied for with a more generic resume and portfolio that showed my range - thanks so much for being with me for the journey. I am still listening as I want to try to eventually get the dream job but enjoying where I am and the excitement of moving forward with goals. Enjoy the coffees and thanks again. From Kate from the Sydney area!”🎥 Check out our BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Feb 26, 202526 min

S5 Ep 6How to connect with a company you want to work for!

Are you eager to connect with a company you admire, but don't know where to start, especially because they aren't actively hiring?In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma share a range of strategies that can help you build meaningful relationships with potential employers, from engaging with their social media content to reaching out to recruiters and managers directly!We also discuss how to navigate expressing interest in multiple roles and why you might want to narrow your focus to stand out. 🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Keara who bought us 3 coffees!“Last year, I did a huge job search to get to the next level in my career and secure a fully remote job. When I started out, I wasn't really getting interviews, and my applications weren't going anywhere. I also had low confidence as I hadn't searched for a new job in 4 years. Last summer, I started listening to Interview Boss religiously, completely re-did my resume using your tips, and used Interview Academy to prepare for my interviews. I landed interviews for 6 different places and felt extremely confident after using the best bits framework. I ended up getting to choose between two incredible roles. I am now 4 months into my new, fully-remote job (with an Assistant Director title!) and a 50% pay rise that is exactly what I was looking for. It was worth the wait; your advice was instrumental in my confidence and success! Thank you!”🎥 Check out our BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Feb 19, 202523 min

S5 Ep 5How to spot a BAD recruiter and the power of a GREAT one!

Not all recruiters are the same and you shouldn't let just anyone represent you! It's important to be picky about which agencies you work with.In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma unpack a listener’s frustrating experience with a recruiter who left them feeling unsupported and unprepared. From the absence of a basic pre-interview meeting to the lack of communication after the interview, we point out all the red flags.We also share how to spot the good recruiters who will actually advocate for you and guide you through the process. The right one can change the entire trajectory of your career and help get you into jobs you wouldn't have ever considered or been able to land on your own!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Jorien who is an Interview Academy Alumni!“Hi Sarah (and Emma), I found your podcast just before I had an interview. I did prep for that very well I thought, but it was a weird experience. My interviewers seemed to have all kinds of ideas about me, but didn't ask directly. I didn't go through to the second round because of experience, but they wanted to keep me as a backup as they thought the interview went great. I decided to apply further and found a job ad that seemed like a better match. I decided to use Interview Academy for my prep, as I realised that my 'good prep' last time might have focused on the wrong things (and surprise, it did). I used Interview Academy first to prep for a great cover letter and CV. Then I got an invitation for a first interview. I asked for a different time (as I couldn't make it) and started to work on my best bits and improve my career story. This morning I felt the nerves, insecure, afraid it might end up like the last interview. However, I thought about a really bad second interview I once did, and I got that job. So I thought: It can't be any worse than that. I just had my interview and it went really well. I felt confident going in, well prepared and ready to discover if this job would fit me. Although my interview was with 4 people, it felt relaxed and like a great conversation. My career story (full of elephants) went well and I could use my best bits for all kinds of questions. I really liked the people I spoke with. I felt so proud and confident walking out. Even if this job goes to someone else, I feel very happy about my preparation and how I did the interview. The good news is that all that prep is so universal, that if this doesn't work out, I can use it for a next interview. Thank you so much, this was (and is) extremely helpful. And I love the sound of your voices :)”🎥 Check out our BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Feb 12, 202523 min

S5 Ep 4Contrary to popular belief, it ISN'T illegal to take a notebook into your interview!

Amongst the stress of an interview, it’s easy to forget the stories and examples you prepared, or lose your train of thought and start rambling. But what if you had a secret weapon you could fall back on? Enter: The Magic Interview Notebook.In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma explain why bringing a notebook into an interview is NOT a crime, despite it feeling like one. From jotting down your carefully crafted questions to having prompts that jog your memory when you go blank, your notebook can be an epic safety net that can help keep your nerves at bay.We share how you can organise your notes, use them seamlessly without reading them word-for-word and bring it into the conversation naturally.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Pat who bought us 5 coffees!“Emma and Sarah, Almost a year ago, my wife and I decided to make a big move to a new city with our boys. You may remember me as the jack of all trades — music, building, environmental work— too many disparate elements for a digestible resume. Like many others, I tried everything, and my wife started referring to me as "the invisible man." I was working so hard, making an impact that I was proud of, yet everything seemed to go unnoticed. I started with your podcast, listening while remodeling friends' homes. Then I moved on to the Interview Academy and worked through developing my best stories and responses. Within a few months, I was getting noticed and landed an incredible interview for a role leading an environmental non-profit in the city we hoped to move to. It felt like I had a great authentic story for every question, and within a few weeks, I got the offer. I've been in the job for 7 months now, and while every position comes with its challenges, it's been incredible. I've developed a whole new set best bits to live alongside the old ones. Listening to the podcast, I kept having the feeling that you two had some magical power that seeped through listeners' earbuds. All these months later, I'm certain of it. But really, you're providing us all with confidence, kindness, laughter, and actionable steps to improve our career transitions. Thank you and cheers! Pat!”🎥 Check out our BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Feb 5, 202528 min

S5 Ep 3Does your job give you enough transferrable skills?

Any job can provide you with valuable stories to use in an interview. BUT, some roles do offer more complexity and responsibility that can really showcase your transferrable skills, especially when you're looking to make a career move. In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma explain how being strategic and intentional with your job choices can accelerate your career progression, helping you build a stronger skill set for the role you ultimately want. Even small shifts in responsibility can add up to big wins on your resume!If you're looking to pivot or grow in your career, this episode is a must listen!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Helen who bought us 5 coffees!“Sarah and Emma, you have been such a huge help in the whole job search, interview, and negotiation process! I had been at the same job for 7 years right out of school and it was super daunting for me when I decided to start looking elsewhere. I was never good at public speaking, let alone interviewing, plus, I get nervous so easily. Your podcast was so helpful in offering both practical advice like what to include on your resume, how to answer questions about a scenario or project that you haven't experienced or worked on before, and tips for negotiating benefits! The podcasts are both informative and enjoyable to listen to through the real life stories you guys share. My favorite episodes are probably the "listen to this RIGHT before your interview", "listen to this right AFTER your interview" and "why we're NOT using the word 'REJECTED' in the job search anymore." Thinking of "rejection" differently has definitely changed my mental game. The mental game is 50% (if not more) of making it! I actually had a good feeling right after that interview, and I landed a job right off the bat. I'm so grateful! Thank you so much! Helen from New Jersey, USA!”🎥 Check out our BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Jan 29, 202520 min

S5 Ep 2The importance of the company description line on your CV

You’ve probably spent hours crafting the perfect resume, but have you ever stopped to consider whether the hiring manager actually knows anything about your previous employers? You shouldn't assume they would have heard of the company before!In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma discuss the importance of including a brief company description on your CV to give context to your experience, clarify the scope of your role and the time period you worked there. This simple addition can save you from misunderstandings and help the hiring manager understand your background quickly and clearly in this competitive job market.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Mendy who bought us a coffee!"Thank you for making the podcast and the resources available to us for free, as much of the stress of being unemployed or underemployed is financial stress. I was laid off from a job in the middle of 2023. I'd been working 65-70 hour weeks and not taken a single day of vacation for 11 months because I was trying to prove myself and get a solid foothold on a competitive team. I got stuck in a bad situation with a toxic boss, and spent most days stress crying just to get through the day. I'd chosen this job though, and very much felt I had to lay in the bed I made. The layoff was devastating, but in some ways was a relief. I took a few months to get healthy and started applying at the start of 2024, but couldn't get anyone to pick up my resume. I applied for 1200 + jobs. I wove in and out of depression thinking that there was something wrong with me that I just couldn't see. I received no feedback, so I couldn't improve my resume or my application to do better the next time. I contacted my friend's realtor at the end of December to begin the process of selling my home because I'd used all of my savings. I felt like I was failing as an adult. If this gets read on the show, for all the folks dealing with these difficult situations, KEEP YOUR HEAD UP. It's so hard to continue trying when you get "rejected" (I know it's a bad word) over and over. It feels like a rejection of your life's work, your education, your capabilities, your desires, and your life and ability to fund it. But keep it up. Keep trying, keep adjusting, keep applying. You are not alone. The week before Christmas, right after that call with the realtor, I received a few wonderful offers, and I am now preparing to start 2025 - over a year and a half after I'd been let go - in a new path. Your podcast and resources were like scaffolding to help me mentally work through the confusing process and stressful steps of this journey, and I'm so incredibly grateful. Thank you, thank you.”🎥 Check out our BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Jan 22, 202532 min

S5 Ep 1Repeat after me: "This is the year I SHOOT MY SHOT!"

If you’re ready to make bold moves this year, this episode is a MUST listen. In 2025, we want you to embody our mantra and ‘SHOOT YOUR SHOT!’Whether it’s applying for a job even though you don’t meet every single requirement, sliding into someone’s DM’s that you admire, entering a competition or asking to taste test an ice cream flavour before committing to a choice, we want to inspire you to stop waiting for permission, and start taking action.It's time to stop letting the fear of rejection hold you back!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Jane who bought us 3 coffees!“Hey Emma and Sarah. I've been listening to your podcasts for 2 years already! Not anymore sorry but I recommend your podcast to everyone around me. I got my dream job by listening to your podcasts and applying what you advised. I listened so much that your voices became so sincere and dear to me (I even have a notebook dedicated to your episodes). Everyday I listened and took notes. I don't know how many times I listened to your group interview episode, before my own group interview! Now that I am in the corporate world, I think there are lots of things to consider, because just getting the job done won't get you promoted. If you run out of content one day I would love to hear some advice related to the corporate world, the oil and gas industry, gender imbalance, toxic environments, how to rise up despite all the hardships and de-motivation and being a woman in male dominated environment. I would love to hear about ADHD as well."🎥 Check out our BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Jan 15, 202534 min

S4 Ep 45Use these ChatGPT prompts to help level up your job search!

It's time to work smarter, not harder! ChatGPT can be an incredible tool in your job search, but the quality of it's responses depends on the quality of YOUR prompts! From writing polished resume bullet points, to researching salaries, Sarah and Emma walk you through 8 game changing prompts you can use, to get ChatGPT working with you - not against you. We've done the heavy lifting for you and created a free download so you can 'copy' & 'paste' and get started today!Disclaimer: It goes without saying that AI should NEVER replace your genuine effort in the job search. Any recruiter can sniff out a resume that's been completely written with ChatGPT a mile away!Get our ChatGPT prompts here: www.interviewboss.com.au/resources🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Yohan who bought us a coffee!“Well, I just started listening to the podcast and this is exactly what I was looking for and more. I don't know how you make it this easy but this is better than any other source I have come across, even my friend in HR hahaha. The ‘about me’ advice is spectacular! I have never felt confident about my story until now. I just bought one coffee because I don't want you to drink too much but I’m gonna buy more along the way until I get an offer :)”🎥 Check out our BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.auMentioned in this episode:New To the Podcast? Start Here!Episodes For Your Situation

Dec 19, 202431 min

S4 Ep 44Why you need to resist the urge to script yourself in an interview!

Are you tempted to script your interview answers to perfection? You need to listen to this episode!Sarah and Emma explain why scripting every word might feel like the safe option but could actually be holding you back.We explain the unintended consequences of speaking in 'robot mode,' like coming across as disconnected and why you should focus on building a flexible answer framework instead.This episode will help you strike the right balance between being prepared, but also conversational.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Roxane who bought us 10 coffees!“This podcast has been such a gift. I found it nearly a year ago when I was prepping for a second interview for a big job that I really wanted. Hearing logical, practical, and actionable advice from two women was not only refreshing, but the tips and insights you provide in your episodes were so relevant and useful. The way you pair interview and work advice with humor and sisterly banter is absolutely addicting. I've listened to nearly every episode, many of them multiple times over, soaking in all the information and laughing along. I also went through the Interview Academy for a little extra practice and focused work to ensure I was as prepared as possible. Although the big job I was interviewing for didn't work out, I left that interview feeling more confident than ever before. I knew that if they didn't pick me, it was because I wasn't the right fit, not because I failed to share my experience. The advice you share about preparing your 'about me' story and the 'best bits' have been the biggest game changers for me. After searching a little more, I landed an interview for another job. I took in all the episodes I could and revisited the Interview Academy materials. Ultimately, all of your wisdom and my prep helped me land the job! It is closer to home, pays better, and is a big next step in my career. And, not only did you help me land this new job, but you again came in clutch with your advice about how to best leave a job, even in a toxic environment. I wrapped up my final weeks at work by prepping all the transition documents, recording videos of processes for future personnel, and providing constructive feedback when asked. All in all, I really don't think I would've made it through this job search as successfully without you. I appreciate the time and dedication you invest in this podcast so much. Thank you for being strong female voices to lean on. Listening from California - Roxane!”🎥 Check out our BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Dec 11, 202422 min

S4 Ep 43Two great candidates - who would YOU hire?

If you're feeling crushed after getting knocked back from a job, then this episode is for you.We've created a mindset exercise to help put your 'rejection' into context. We hope this role-playing exercise will help you to understand just how subjective hiring decisions can be - and how it's not always about being 'better,' but about being the right fit for the specific need.We’d love to hear who YOU picked and why! Drop us a comment on Spotify for this episode or slide into our DM's with your thoughts!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to CC who bought us 10 coffees!“The sisters I never had! I moved out of leadership from a toxic company and got a good job with slightly better pay but after a year and an unsuccessful application for a promotion I was feeling a bit stagnant. I thought I was in a good position this time around when another leadership opening in my department came up, but wanted to leave nothing to chance. I am confident in my employability and skills, but I have ADHD, anxiety and hot mess energy. Sometimes it feels like nobody understands my brain. The content was all somewhat familiar to me, and I had luckily been preparing for interviews in similar ways, but the podcast and Interview Academy really helped me not feel alone in the process. You gave me clear strategies, goals, accountability, and permission to calm down. I listened to the “before you go into your interview” literally standing in a power pose in a small room with the air conditioner maxed out and tears welling in my eyes because I was so inspired. My career story sold like hotcakes. The rest of the interview is a blur. I got the promotion and a fatter pay rise than expected. I can’t thank you enough for helping me stay focused!”🎥 Check out our BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Dec 4, 202422 min

S4 Ep 42Why should I prepare for this interview when 'winging it' has worked for me in the past?

If you have an interview coming up and are a little tempted to wing it, then this episode is for you!This week Sarah and Emma debunk the idea that because you didn't do 'XYZ' last time and everything worked out, you shouldn't worry about doing it this time either.We share a range of reasons interviews might have felt easy in the past and remind you that interview prep is like the seatbelt of job hunting: you don’t always need it, but you’re glad to have it when you do.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Dora who bought us 3 coffees!“Hi, Emma and Sarah, the past few months have pretty hectic career-wise and I want to thank you being there all along! I was approached by a firm offering an incredible 35% raise, and I did my best to get the job. I listened to your tips about best bits, how to make the most of the 'tell me about yourself' part of the interview, questions I should ask at the end etc. All went great and I got the job! Shortly after starting though, I found out that the role was not exactly how I imagined and my boss was unfortunately a very toxic person, so then came a totally desperate phase in my professional life. I couldn't have got through it without your podcasts on job regrets, and on how to survive at a place you already know is not meant for you. I was interviewing at other places while trying to hold on in my horrible new job. Your podcast helped me reflect on what I was actually looking for and how to prepare for my next move. I'm so happy to tell you that thanks to you I got exactly the type of job I was looking for and also managed to negotiate to keep my salary with the 35% raise, which I had previously achieved. I cannot believe I can do what I like and for the money I couldn't have imagined before. Thanks for your podcast on literally ALL topics related to job hunting. I'm sure you will be on the top of my yearly Spotify recap. ;)”🎥 Check out our BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Nov 20, 202421 min

S4 Ep 41Why you should STOP tailoring your resume for every single job!

Chances are you've probably been told you need to customise your resume for every single job you apply for, to perfectly match the job description, reflect the company culture and stand out from the crowd.BUT what if we gave you permission to abandon this time consuming and exhausting advice?In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma share an alternative tip that will alleviate stress and prevent you from burning out before you've even landed an interview.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Lysandra who bought us 3 coffees!“I went for a management position in educational psychology that I'm not sure I had enough experience for. It was a panel interview (4 people) which overran, lasting for 1hr 40mins. I was shattered! It was a virtual interview which I do not love but your pod helped me to see the positive side to this. I worked hard on my initial story. I was able to read from my notes & screen share ideas I'd prepared in advance. I also didn't let the lady with the 'resting b***h face' distract me like it often does. One other thing that I normally stress about is finding the perfect example for the "tell us a time when you..." questions. Instead, you helped me to focus on explaining my self-awareness & learning from the examples rather than the event itself. Last night I got the call to say they want me! Thank you guys so much for your help. Enjoy the coffee."🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Nov 13, 202420 min

S4 Ep 40Nervous to ask about part-time work? Here's how to bring it up!

If you're hoping to ask about taking on a role part-time, but have no idea how or where to bring it up in the interview process, then this episode is for you!Sarah and Emma explain what you can say if you're strictly looking for part-time work, or looking to eventually transition from part-time into full-time.We explain why it's important to highlight your flexibility to boost your chances, but remind you that you can't control what the companies answer will be. You will never know until you ask!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Tricia who bought us 6 coffees!"Omg where do I even begin?!? It has been my life-long dream to live in the mountains, so 2024 was the year my husband and I made the decision to move across the country to Colorado. This meant I needed to quit my comfy corporate job where I had been for the past 6 years and find something new. I went into the job hunt very confident, because I have amazing experience and I thought my resume spoke for itself. I thought getting interviews would be a piece of cake. Boy was I wrong. With 28% of the American population looking for jobs right now, I literally picked the worst time to quit with no other job lined up. We moved in August, but I proactively started applying for jobs in January. I didn’t get a single interview until July. Yikes!! By September, I was extremely discouraged and terrified that I would have to take a significant step back in my career that I had worked so hard for. Your podcast was the one thing that kept me going and made me feel better. Anytime I had anxiety, I’d listen to an episode and felt more reassured. At this point, I’ve listened to almost every episode. Finally I secured 2 interviews in the same week with 2 companies. We will call them company 1 and 2. Neither job was my “dream job,” but at this point I was getting desperate and I definitely had to take my dream job off a pedestal. Company 1 was easy breezy. The interviewer didn’t ask me a single question but I was sure to interrupt him so I could tell him my best bits. He was thoroughly impressed. Company 2 was more intense. They made me prepare a 10 min presentation using 3 excel sheets of data where I had to give them a sales pitch. I was absolutely terrified and froze several times throughout the presentation… BUT I nailed the “tell me about yourself” part (which I had been practicing for the past 8 months), and every “normal” interview question. I even had them laughing with my jokes. I told them I was nervous because I cared about this job lol. At the end of the interview process, company 1 offered me a job with my preferred salary, and company 2 told me that I didn’t get the job I had applied for, but they liked me so much that they asked if I would interview for a different role! So thanks to you guys, I knew exactly how to play my power move!! I told company 2 that they needed to interview me and offer me the job within 1 week because I already had another offer. They ultimately told me they couldn’t meet my timeline, so I thanked them for their consideration and took the offer at company 1!! Even though company 2 was my preferred company, I’m SOOO happy to have a job (contract has been signed!). The bonus is that I ended on great terms with the HR team at company 2 and they told me they’d let me know if another role opens up!”🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.auMentioned in this episode:New To the Podcast? Start Here!Episodes For Your Situation

Nov 6, 202423 min

S4 Ep 39Great job, bad ad? Why you might be missing awesome job opportunities

Ever scrolled past a job ad because it seemed really boring or just didn’t stand out? You might be missing out! Just because an ad isn’t exciting doesn’t mean the job isn’t.In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma dive into the hidden potential of 'bad' job ads and why judging a role by its listing could be keeping you from great opportunities. We’ll explain how to spot roles with hidden gems behind the bland wording and why it’s important to focus on what really matters when deciding to apply.Don’t let first impressions be the reason you miss out on your next big career move!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to T “Having been a career coach, leader, and mentor for a number of years, when it was time for me to step away from my current role and get back into interviewing it was an embarrassing shock to realise I'd forgotten how to interview myself. My first interview (with a company I was a little too excited about) was a notable bomb that left me staring into space with absolute wonder at the level of 'bad' I'd displayed. I started searching for podcasts that I could listen to while walking the dog, and found you two. Between the varied topics that you cover, your fun banter, and accents that are very pleasant to listen to, I have been through much of your content. I prepared the best bits, re-tailored my introductions, and prepared myself for salary negotiations, and listened to your 'right before the interview' pep talk before every interview. Getting to the final stages with two companies, I listened to your show regarding how to best communicate the competing offers, and after accepting a new offer was able to confidently plan my exit with my previous employer. I've been with my new company now for about a month, and while the jump felt scary, I'm so glad I made the move to be somewhere where I actually feel respected and valued. I'm thrilled to have found you and have recommended Interview Boss to other 'yanks' struggling in their job searches. Thank you for the positive energy, advice, and fun you bring to the job search grind, which can so often feel awful and soul-sucking. Enjoy a couple of coffees!”🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.auPod follow link:

Oct 30, 202420 min

S4 Ep 38How to craft the perfect 'about me' profile on your resume!

The 'profile' section goes at the top of your resume - it's PRIME real estate and therefore, the very first thing a hiring manager will read. It needs to be strong!In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma share a handy fill-in-the-blank style template, to help you craft the perfect summary that describes your job title, years of experience, areas of expertise, skillset and the industries you've worked in.We explain how most people go wrong by using too many buzzwords and emphasizing low level skills.🏀 Shot Your Shot - Shoutout to 'Interview Squirrel' who bought us 3 coffees!"Ladies, THANK YOU! Your podcast helped me get confidence and knowledge in all aspects of the job hunting process. I went from working for myself for the past 15 years to stepping into the corporate world and I felt like I had about the same amount of experience in the interview process as a squirrel. I thought “what do you mean prepare? I’ll just show up and they’ll ask me stuff right?” Needless to say, after the first fairly awkward interview I found your podcast and over the past month I’ve been religiously listening to episode after episode, improving my strategy each time. Surprisingly, I moved on to the next round in the previously mentioned interview and I went through 5 INTERVIEWS for this position. I was so nervous in the final presentation round that I even tried the butt cheeks strategy! Haha unfortunately my hands and voice were still shaking so that one didn’t work for me. Luckily almost everything else I learned did though, both the skills you teach and the encouragement! I specifically love how you make the interview process less intimidating and how to laugh at the uncomfortable. Anyway, I'm happy to report that the company just made me an offer, which was 25k over what I would’ve been happy to accept! Thanks again, you rock!"🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Oct 23, 202430 min

S4 Ep 37Why it's okay to have a 'boring' job and decenter it from your identity!

Landing your dream job isn't always linear. Sometimes, you have to take a longer path to get there. Kids might come along, your financial situation could change and unexpected life events can demand your attention, re-shuffle your priorities and pull you in different directions. This re-assuring episode is for all our listeners that are putting too much pressure on themselves to land the 'perfect' role right away. Spoiler alert: there's no such thing!Sarah and Emma explain that it's okay to decentre your job from your universe for a season of life or forever. We chat about how side steps are still progress and how you can begin to re-define your identity outside of work.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Caroline who bought us 5 coffees!"I’m a long time Interview Bossee who stumbled upon the podcast when looking for career & interview support. I had loads of experience across my career, but had some career gaps due to moving countries, having kids, and changing industries. I felt this held me back & as a working parent, as it pains me to say this, but I started to feel lucky to land a job, so I started applying for roles I was overqualified for. I was feeling desperate to return to work and feel relevant again, but the more I applied the more silence I got, and the rejection was hitting hard. Eventually I thought I’d found it! A part time role that seemed really interesting. Despite my gut telling me something wasn’t right in the interview, I ignored the flags, took the job and thought, just get in and it’ll work out. Well, within my first week those red flags were clearly evident and I gave notice within a month, not without listening to your episode on resigning. A new school year rolled around which came with parental responsibilities, so I ended up taking a school hours role, for some absolutely lovely people, but it was far from what I was seeking from a career. I just needed a break from the corporate job hunt and ability to pick my kids up from school. I continued to listen to Interview Boss almost every day, as I knew the right thing had to be coming along and I wanted to be so prepared. Well it did. 5 months later a role was advertised for a company that I had been following for some time. I really loved work they did and heard the hiring manager was a fantastic leader. I jumped on it immediately and less than 2 weeks later, their HR team reached out to schedule a screening interview. It couldn't have gone better. I scripted up the perfect 'tell me about yourself' story which made the gaps on my CV sing. A few days later when the company called with what I thought was with the offer, they were so impressed that they offered me an even better role with a higher salary to match! I couldn’t believe it! All credit to all the IB resources and support. I’m now a few weeks into my new role and am so happy. I can finally look forward to longevity in my new career. I can’t thank you both enough – your advice and support has been incredible."🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Oct 17, 202432 min

S4 Ep 36"Best Bits" explained - our game changing approach to preparing for interviews!

Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the pod, chances are you've heard us mention 'Best Bits' before. It is undoubtedly one of our most important pieces of advice and underpins all of our teachings. We thought it was time to revisit this game changing concept. Forget googling 'common interview questions' and trying to come up with specific answers for each one.In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma explain why that's the exact OPPOSITE of where you should start. We unpack how to brainstorm and structure your examples (best bits) so that you can walk out of that interview with confidence knowing you did yourself justice, regardless of what questions you were asked.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Shannon Tate who bought us 5 coffees!“Hi Emma and Sarah, I am so glad I found you. I have spent the majority of my Career in the Military (close to 20 years) so have had minimal experience with traditional interview processes, having only done 3 interviews ever before this most recent job. I applied for a role with a company that I have wanted to work for, for a while. I had very little confidence in my resume so when I received an email letting me know I had a video/recorded interview I was excited but also terrified. I had done one of these once before and it was an awful experience. I have a friend who had recently been applying for jobs and had found your podcast. She forwarded me the link to your one on recorded interviews. The advice around letting your personality show through to see if you are a good culture fit was a game changer for me. It went better than I thought, though I still had a few cringe moments remembering back to what I had said and that it would be forever kept in video form. Amazingly, I got a call the very next day (before the recorded interview time frame had finished) to let me know I had an in-person interview. This is where I got serious and started bingeing all your episodes any time I was in my car. I also purchased the Interview Academy to make sure I was prepared as I could be. I felt super confident coming out of the interview and again got a call the following morning for a second interview with the GM. This went great and was followed up by a call only hours later to say I was moving onto the "vetting" phase. I am now days away from getting a contract. I cannot thank you enough and I have been recommending your podcast to anyone that will listen.”Other episodes of ours that touch on 'Best Bits:'The BEST way to prepare for a job interviewHow to answer behavioural job interview questionsInterview worthy examples - what makes a good story?How to level up your interview answers: why the ‘situation’ matters most!Send this to your job interview practice buddy🎥 Check out BRAND NEW free training - Top Interview Tips https://www.interviewboss.com.au/top-interview-tips🏫 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss☎️ To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching ❤️  Follow us on Instagram📒 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Oct 9, 202435 min

S4 Ep 35Is it safe to hand in my resignation if I've received a contingent offer?

You've been told you've got the job - but there's some t&c's. Your offer is contingent on you passing some third-party health and background checks, which could take weeks. Because of this, you haven't been given a start date. Can you start celebrating? Is this offer legitimate enough to warrant resigning?In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma respond to listener Mandi's conundrum and discuss how to protect yourself so you don't end up in a sticky situation.We share some tips on how you can find out more information about the background check process to make an informed decision on the perfect time to resign.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to “no longer jobless” who bought us 5 coffees! "Girls, I just got an offer for the job that fits me best which is a 20% increase on base salary!! Thank you so much for giving me the tools, structure and inspo. It has been a wild 6 months. Having not worked for a year, I'd lost confidence and direction. The market is completely different, and I've never had to go through formal processes. Also, I am sure there is a special place in hell for interviews. While the first few interviews for this process were not perfect, at least I turned up (I cancelled soooo many first and second interviews due to nerves/self-sabotage), and I even managed to get out my stories and showcase my best bits. I nailed the presentation (mostly) on Tuesday, references done on Wednesday, got the offer today! I'm so inspired, this was exactly what I needed to get out of my funk. I loved how I could work through the steps at my own pace and download your tools without having to sell my soul. Thanks for sharing your expertise with me. I wish you both all the success, Your fan in Melbourne. PS. I would buy you more cuppas but my budget is low after having spent $500 on a career coach before I found your podcast!😭"📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Oct 2, 202419 min

S4 Ep 34Send this to your job interview practice buddy

POV: You have a job interview coming up, you've spent hours prepping your 'tell me about yourself' story and best bits and now, you just need to PRACTICE.It's officially time to summon a parent, your partner, a friend, a house mate, neighbour, or heck, even a stranger off the street (just kidding, please don't do that) to help you rehearse! All you have to do is send them a link to this episode.Your practice buddy may have never listened to us before - but that's okay, because this episode will catch them up to speed on our key philosophies! In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma tell your practice buddy how the answers should be structured, what to give feedback on and what's not a big deal.Your practice buddy doesn't need to know a whole lot about your job or achievements, in fact, sometimes this makes them an even better, objective helper.Happy practicing!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Trish who is an Interview Academy alumni!“Hi Sarah and Em! I have never felt so prepared for a set of interviews in my life after completing Interview Academy. The course was the 'extra' lift I needed to keep going. To push myself on the examples, to push myself to think deeper, and to practice, practice, practice. I went over the job description with a fine toothcomb and connected the dots between what they were looking for, and my experience, coupled with a few examples. My examples were categorised into different topics that could work for multiple questions and I DIDN'T feel nervous because of the pre interview breathing exercises on your podcast! I soaked in all of the good information and gave it my best shot. During the interviews, I received positive phrases such as "you really hit the nail on the head there", and "that's a great example". Leaving the interviews, I know I gave it my all and I did my best. Waiting to hear back and excited and really hope its the outcome that I dream of! Thanks so much for putting together a highly effective course that really sets anyone up for success with any interview, if you are willing to put in the time, effort and practice! This course coupled with your podcast episodes has been a core part of my preparation and I want to say a huge thanks for it!”Mentioned in this episode: Practice Checklist 📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Sep 25, 202439 min

S4 Ep 33Practice makes PERFECT! How to actually practice your interview answers

Being in an interview can feel like being in a pressure cooker. It's un-natural, you're nervous and thinking on your feet.As cliche as it sounds, good practice is KEY and will have you walking out of that interview confident you've done yourself justice.In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma discuss what exactly you should practice and share their favourite hacks like recording yourself on voice memos and listening back to it on repeat, or roping in a buddy to conduct a mock interview.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Kirby!"Sarah & Em! Ah! There I was in the airport, wrapping up my travels for a full day of interviews and facilitation for a job and BOOM - the episode you created for my plight shows up in my Spotify. I start listening, and smile at all the work I did in between your original DM and the moment I'm in: post-interview, feeling great. I know what was going on: I was trying to be Mr. Fantastic, Sir Yapper, Dr. Doesn't-matter-how-much-you-tell-me-this-job-sucks-I-think-its-perfect, Chatter-box Junior, King of Everything. I don't love that is how I showed up in my past interviews, but at the same time I took to heart some of your advice as well as perspectives of people I can trust to be real with me. My key take aways: (1) show them range! I started to be more mysterious, and concise in my answers to allow the interviewer a chance to be interested and ask follow up questions vs over-explaining, or being a 10/10 for energy start to finish. I stated at a 6, and then warmed up. (2) chill the f out. This basically boils down to taking the job off the pedestal, and reclaiming my value beyond work. Yes, I'm desperate and I'm passionate. Both can exist, but when I'm those things along with anxiety its not cool. I did some breath work before my interviews, and went in with an attitude like, "if they want me: sick. If they don't: meh. all good. I'm gonna get a cinnamon roll. Next." Longest story short. I'm listening to the episode and the phone rings. The offer. I negotiate up my salary, an added week of vacation, and solid sign-on/relocation bonus. This shout out and thank you is not for the outcome, but for the journey. Thank you for the hype-up episode I listened to while walking to the interview, and then the inspired hype-up call I made to my bestie Emily who also listens to this podcast. Thank you for being candid queens, confidantes, and bestest-mates (I'm not Aussie, but hey I'm trying) of the beautiful disaster we worked our way through. Cheers. Love you (but I don't really, sorry that's too much). Thank you!"📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Sep 18, 202430 min

S4 Ep 32Why am I being rejected on the weekend or at 2am?!

We’ve had a few questions from our listeners about a curious phenomenon. They receive the standard ‘unsuccessful application’ email, but at REALLY strange times - some are coming through on the weekend, way after hours, or even at 2am?!In this week’s episode, Emma and Sarah put their investigator hats on and get the scoop on why your rejection emails are coming through that way. Is it an automated rejection? Is it a nocturnal recruiter somewhere? Tune in to find out!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Angela “Hello Emma & Sarah!I wanted to share some exciting news with you. After months of interview rounds, I will be starting my new job next week! Thanks to your invaluable advice, I was able to secure a position with a $38k increase in my base salary and a total compensation increase of $51k. Your podcast has been a fantastic companion throughout my job search journey. I listened to your "Exit Interview Do's and Don'ts" episode this morning before giving my exit interview, and it was incredibly helpful.  The "Listen to This" episodes have been particularly impactful. I made it a point to listen to "Listen to This RIGHT Before Your Interview" before each interview I attended (and there were many!), and it always helped to boost my confidence and calm my nerves. I truly love your podcast and will enthusiastically recommend it to anyone on the job hunt. Thank you for everything you do!”📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Sep 11, 202424 min

S4 Ep 31The inside scoop on assessment centres - including cringey ice breakers!

You’ve applied for a job, and you’ve landed an interview - BUT you’ve found out you won’t be the only candidate in the room, you're headed to an assessment centre! Employers use these a lot to save time OR when they're hiring in bulk, especially for grad programs.Having planned and facilitated dozens of assessment centres, in this week's episode, Sarah gives you the inside scoop on what you kind of tasks you can expect to complete.We discuss what an employer is looking for and share some helpful tips to do yourself justice in the group environment. 🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Sophie who bought us 2 coffees!"“Dear Emma & Sarah, thank you so much for putting this podcast out into the world! I’ve been unhappy in my job for quite a while but was able to keep my role and move down to Melbourne from Brisbane 4 months ago which was great for job security, but I was still ready for a change. After going on a job applying rampage, the rejection emails started flowing in and it was a humbling experience to say the least as all my previous roles I’d gotten in Brisbane were through making connections and my network. But now being in Melbourne I felt like a small fish in a much bigger pond with no way to get my foot in the door. I finally got a video screening call which went well and then only had a few days to prepare before an in-person interview. I was very nervous leading up to it as I hadn’t been for an interview in 2 years and felt very out of practice. Luckily, I went to a wine bar with a friend who recommended your podcast. I binge-listened to your interview episodes which helped me so much with my prep and helped me focus on my best bits. I walked out of the first interview feeling like I nailed it and got the call the next day to say that I’d progressed to the second and final interview. Here we go again. After listening to you ladies some more (and even having you in my ears right up until I walked in the door), I also felt confident coming out of the second interview and am so happy to share that I got the role. It’s a pay increase and at a company that I think will really align with my values. I start next month. Thank you so much and keep putting out this fantastic, practical and helpful content.”🎧 Mentioned in this episode: Standing out from the crowd in a group interview📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Aug 28, 202440 min

S4 Ep 30Why showing TOO much enthusiasm in an interview can be a BAD thing!

We always tell people starting out in their careers 'what you lack in experience you can make up for with enthusiasm,' BUT this golden rule does have caveats!This week's episode is dedicated to listener Kirby, who was told he came off 'too excited' in the interview after finding out he was unsuccessful.We unpack why extreme enthusiasm could make a prospective employer potentially concerned that you aren't forming a realistic view of the job.Disclaimer: This feedback should be taken with a grain of salt. You should never change your entire approach based on one piece of feedback and we certainly don't want anyone intentionally dulling their sparkle!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Rachel who bought us 3 coffees!"I just had to share this story with you because I could not have gotten through this wild second round interview without your advice. I had prepared stories that I could mould to any question. I accepted the water. I accepted the coffee (I had drinks double parked like I was Friday night clubbing). I was clenching those butt cheeks like a pro. I’d stalked everyone on that interview panel like a serial killer. If the cleaner had got in the lift with me, I’d have smiled, asked how her kids were and known their names. My outfit was smart, but not desperate. I arrived 10mins early but no earlier. I greeted the security guard like a long lost pal. I had my notebook. My questions were prepped and on point. I was ready. The interview was in two parts – the first with my manager and a team member – which included a test case scenario. I did the deep breathing. I took my time. I smashed it. They were smiling and nodding and talking in the positive give-aways “YOU would be reporting to….”. I was feeling good. The second part of the interview was with HR who wanted to see if I was a “good fit”. I had no idea if she was going to come in with a tape measure and a snap on plastic glove - I never got to that podcast. But I’d researched the company values – I knew them. I’d made up an acronym to remember them (CRAPPER – Customer focused, Responsibility, Achievement, Perseverance, Preparation, Enthusiasm, Reward). What I wasn’t prepared for was to be asked for a “tell me a time when…” for EVERY SINGLE VALUE. Well, I ran out of stories. I think Agatha Christie would have struggled with this one. I swear if she’d have asked me anymore "tell me a time when" scenarios, Goldilocks and the three bears would have rocked up somewhere in my career history to demonstrate how enthusiastic I am about porridge. 45 MINUTES this went on, whilst she furiously scribbled down page after page of notes. I was starting to wilt. I lost my thread but thanks to your advice, I stopped, asked her to repeat the question and got right back on point. When it was finally over, I felt like I’d been through a blender. I left there bewildered - having no idea at all how it went. I’ve listened to the “Listen to this right after your interview” podcast and I know I can’t do anymore than I’ve done. Feedback? Apparently, they loved me. Me? I'm wondering if I can sell my soul to this cult and if they offer me the job whether I’ll need to have CRAPPER tattoo’d on my tightly clenched butt cheek. I am still pressing forward, applying for jobs, not waiting for a response on this one. Its all great practice, I'm learning a skill, and the better I get, I know in the end something will come up. Thank you both for helping me through what has been a really stressful time, you guys are the best."🎧 Mentioned in this episode - the mindset activity at the end of this ep 📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Aug 21, 202427 min

S4 Ep 29HELP! I have NO references to put down on my application!

You've made it to the final step in the recruitment process - you might be the final candidate OR you might still be up against someone else. But what happens when you have no suitable people to put down as a reference?In this week's episode Emma and Sarah answer a conundrum sent in by a listener who feels like they have no options for references due to bouncing between jobs and industries and not staying in touch with former employers. We share our tips for hitting up old bosses for references, explain why requesting a statement of service can be a good plan B and brainstorm ideas on how you can begin to secure some solid references - because this problem isn't going to go away on it's own!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to to Lori who bought us 5 coffees!"Emma and Sarah, words cannot express how much I appreciate you both and the impact you made on me landing my new job. I was laid off from my job after working for the same company for 27 years. While I stayed positive and hopeful that I would eventually find a great role, my confidence (in all areas of my life) plummeted! If the company I dedicated so much of myself did not choose me, who would?! I listened to your podcasts every time I went to the gym (which made me more eager to go! win!) and took away something from every episode. It was the "best bits" exercise that turned everything around for me. After writing all of them down and connecting them to skills and qualifications so I could speak to them in interviews, I realised I DO have value to bring to an organisation. My next screening interviews progressed to seconds, thirds, fourths, and ultimately- offers! I am so excited to start my new role on August 5th and I owe a lot of it to both of you! Thank you!”🎧 Listen to our other episodes on references here:https://player.captivate.fm/episode/c3d9051d-a9d9-49ef-9442-32a373b30652/https://player.captivate.fm/episode/8ef90c99-2e4a-4fb0-b971-4bc71420cfb6/📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Aug 14, 202429 min

S4 Ep 28Global career moves: Is working abroad right for you?

Are you contemplating working overseas but unsure if it's the right move for your career? In this episode, Emma and Sarah dive deep into the pros and cons of taking your professional life abroad.Whether you're dreaming of a career adventure in a new country or weighing the practicalities of the move, this episode will provide you with the guidance and inspiration you need to make the best choice for your professional journey🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Lewis who bought us 5 coffees!Hi Emma and Sarah. I wanted to say thank you for all your help, listening to the podcast has changed my outlook on the job search and has given me the motivation to get through a tough period in my career. I came across your podcast while I was interviewing for a new role in a small tech start-up, after listening to most of your episodes I nailed the interview and was offered what I thought was my dream job. However, things did not turn out how I expected and I ended up in a very toxic work environment which was starting to affect my health. After 6 months of working there, I started listening to the podcast again on my commute which gave me the confidence in myself to resign with no job lined up. After a bit of stressing and panic, I ended up with interviews for two companies. Listening to the podcast on the way to the interview makes me feel like I have a support team backing me. I went into the interview confident and explained honestly why I left my previous role and what I was looking for in my career. I couldn't believe it when I was offered both positions within two weeks of resigning from my previous job! After careful consideration, I went with the company and project that aligned more closely with my personal values. I can't thank you enough for your advice, insight and Aussie humour. I tell everyone I know to have a listen. Thank you so much. Lewis. (Listening all the way from Scotland)🎧 Episode about moving to a new city: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/87daf688-8f7f-484d-9511-44dcb317298b📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Aug 7, 202424 min

S4 Ep 27Interview example coming up short? Add a hypothetical!

Ever found yourself in a situation where you don't have an ideal story or example for an interview question? If you have something in mind, but feel like it doesn't show off your whole approach to decision making, you can consider adding a hypothetical at the end of your answer. It could sound like "but if that didn't work I would have done xyz" or "if the customer responded with x I would have then..."In this week's episode Emma and Sarah unpack the strategy which can be a lifeline in a pinch.Disclaimer: Real examples come first! You shouldn't use hypotheticals in response to every question. 🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Darcy who bought us 5 coffees!"Emma and Sarah, I have been waiting to share good news with you since I started listening a few months back - and here it is! I was devastated when I lost my job last summer. I was struggling to figure out how to move forward with my career, feeling like I would never find my confidence or a job I was proud of again. After nearly 9 months of the brutal job search cycle, I had been interviewed for 3 different roles, but I still wasn't getting any job offers. I found your podcast and it changed everything! The things that flipped the script for me were: 1) Best Bits: It sounds so simple, but controlling the narrative on my career story was hands down the best advice I've ever heard about interviewing! 2) Just SAYING the thing: I was dancing around the reason I left the previous employer because I was so traumatized by it. I thought that if they wanted to know about it, the interviewer(s) would ask outright! Your episode on how to talk about the thing that you're worried about made such a big difference. 3) Preparing for the interview: So many things in this bucket. Stopping the interview prep the day before, getting a good pep talk from a friend, listening to your pep talk episode, preparing genuine questions to ask the interviewer... Just so many incredible suggestions! I finally felt like I was not only qualified, but truly the best candidate for this job! I applied for a job I really was excited about, which would take me out of the private sector I worked in and into a role with a state government agency. I went through multiple rounds of panel interviews, both over the phone and in person. I followed your advice on the thank you emails - not trying to sell myself, but just building on the connections I made with each interviewer. I am so thankful to you both because without your podcast, I may not have been selected as the finalist for this role. I got word the day before my birthday that I'll be receiving the official written job offer once all the background & reference checks come back in! Please know that you changed my life and I talk about it with anyone who will listen! I'll be listening to your episodes on starting a new job in the near future, and I'll always come back for any career advice you have to offer :)"📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Jul 31, 202419 min

S4 Ep 26ALL the flow on benefits of doing AMAZING in your job interview!

If you have an interview coming up and are a little tempted to wing it, then this episode is for you!It's easy to think "I just need to do a good enough job to get the role." BUT the truth is, smashing an interview out of the park will pay DIVIDENDS long into your career at the company.In this week's motivating episode, Sarah and Emma discuss all the ongoing benefits of giving an AMAZING interview, like having the role entirely changed to better suit you and your skills, getting offered a higher salary than you asked for and getting to work on the best projects.Disclaimer: Skip this ep if you're a perfectionist who is prone to panic and has already put in hours and hours of prep.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Hay who bought us 6 coffees!"Emma and Sarah, I am so grateful for you! I trained and worked in a very 'traditional' field for a few years before going into a startup. I had always wanted to work in tech and never had the opportunity to find out if it was right for me. I loved it but realised through this career pivot what my true professional loves are and made the decision to return to my previous field with a tech focus. In previous roles, I was badly scarred by bullying and even (TW) assault, where both HR and managers told me that it was just 'something that happened in the industry' and I had to deal with it. I was made to feel worthless, and I truly believed I was. I'd also held two positions in two years, and I was so worried about how people saw me. When I started interviewing, I was really disheartened by how interviewers treated my 'unconventional' experience - they saw it as a poor choice. Some even suggested I would have to be on a lower salary because it didn't count as relevant work experience in their eyes! At first, I felt quite sorry for myself and wallowed, but then I found you. Your podcast helped me take ownership of my entire career trajectory and taught me to highlight how all of my work experience is not just transferable, but meaningful. I loved your episode about taking a 'dream role' off the pedestal; going into my interviews, this was an absolute game changer! It meant I could just focus on being myself and treating the interview like an opportunity to learn about the role and why I might like it, instead of treating it as a 'dream role' I needed to be perfect for. I'm happy to report I accepted a great role, and I'm going in with realistic expectations, eyes wide open but also excitement and happiness about the experience overall. I couldn't have done it without you."📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Jul 23, 202421 min

S4 Ep 25Counsel for aspiring lawyers - with Career Big Sis Mel Storey!

This week, Sarah and Emma are joined by a very special guest, Mel Storey! She’s a tech in-house lawyer, but not just any in-house lawyer, she was 2023 In House Lawyer of the Year, she is the Podcast Host of Counsel, she’s your career big sis on Tiktok and an all round Thought Leader. We cover SO much in this episode with Mel, including clerkships and work experience while studying, the recruitment phase, whether the reputation of a law school matters and pro's and con's of being an in-house lawyer vs working in a firm.This episode is a MUST listen for anyone hoping to pursue, or currently in the legal field. BUT we guarantee there is a piece of wisdom in this episode for EVERY LISTENER, whether you have a legal background or not.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Kendra who bought us 5 coffees!Hi Emma and Sarah! Y'all's podcast was a *GAME CHANGER* for my job search! Prior to finding your podcast, I was somewhat actively job hunting for about 3 years. My resume and experience were enough to have the interview door's open. But every single time- my in person interviews fell flat due to overthinking and rehearsing whatever answers other social media "experts" advised. Rehearsing over and over the "best" responses, like a script. I found your podcast at the best possible time! I was interviewing for a director level role in HR, with no prior direct experience in HR. One of the first podcasts I listened to- y'all gave the advice "want to know what you'll be asked during an interview? News flash- you can't predict what you'll be asked. The facade was lifted. I would answer each question moving forward with my "best bits", and how to be a story teller of my experiences. My "best bits" showed the interviewers the unique value I bring to the table. After an introductory conversation, the hiring leaders took a step back and completely changed the function of the role so that it aligned with the skillsets I have. In a sense, customizing a role so they could hire me. I greatly appreciate the enthusiasm, humor, and wisdom you share on every episode. I "graduated" about 6 months ago. At the time of accepting this director role, my salary went up 59%! And about a month ago, I received another raise due to industry competitiveness. My salary today is now 91% above what I was making 6 months ago in my last role where my skillsets were valued, but I wasn't. The interview process for this position was brutally long (4 months) with multiple rounds of interviews, but your podcast was like a warm cup of coffee to figuratively (and literally) fuel me. Thank you for all you continue to do! I've recommended your podcast to multiple friends and family members!" 📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.auHow to find more of Mel's content:Follow her on TikTok hereListen to her podcast "Counsel" hereConnect with her on LinkedIn hereFollow her on Instagram here

Jul 17, 20241h 4m

S4 Ep 24How to GRACIOUSLY turn down a job offer WITHOUT burning the bridge!

One minute you're in the job seeking trenches, PRAYING you'll receive ANY offer and before you know it, you've been offered multiple opportunities all at once, and have to decide which to decline.Sound familiar? It's a conundrum we see ALL the time!In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma discuss how to gracefully turn down an offer or role.We discuss what this should look like, depending on what stage of the recruitment process you're in. Because pulling out of the race before you've even sat your interview is very different to pulling out after you've signed a contract.Side note: If you haven't already listened to our power move episode about juggling multiple offers. Click here to listen, and come back to this episode afterward!Goodluck and remember, having too many offers is a GREAT problem to have!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Adam Gee who bought us 3 coffees!“Emma and Sarah, the real bosses!! I found your podcast while preparing for an interview for a Graphic Design Manager position. I listened to the entire "Prepare for your Interview" Playlist, and then some!! Your advice, confidence, and above all, your humor got me feeling fully prepared. I played my power song (Van Halen's 'Jump') and walked into the conference room with confidence. I aced the interview and got the job!! Now I am going through your "How to Resign" episodes so I can quit my current job with class 😎 I'm sharing your podcast with everyone I talk to. Cheers to you both and thank you for the amazing content!!”📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Jul 10, 202425 min

S4 Ep 23Help! Should I accept a short-term contract?

Join us as we unpack short-term contracts! In this week's episode Sarah and Emma discuss how they differ from permanent roles and the different types of short-term contracts from agency placements, to fixed-term gigs.We share some pro's and con's, like diverse experiences and maybe a higher paycheck, against cons like job insecurity and a lack of benefits. We also share our advice on what to keep in mind if you do take on a short-term contract, to ensure you're able to reap the rewards!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Xuanmad who bought us 5 coffees!"I GOT THE JOB ! I can’t believe I’m finally writing these words. Coming out of uni, I accepted the first okay job offer I got, because I was terrified of ending up with nothing. First week in, and I knew this wasn’t it, but I decided to hold on and gain the experience. I found your podcast and started listening to it to prepare for the application and interview process. One year in, I was actually depressed. I’d break down crying in the bathroom multiple times a month, but I was feeling so worthless that applying for jobs seemed pointless: who would want to hire someone like me? Even though I was praised for my job, I felt like an absolute fraud. The only thing that kept me hoping was you two girls. Hearing your voices would soothe me and helped me believe that there was a better job for me out there, and that I would get it! At the start of 2024, I gave myself the goal of switching jobs before the end of the year. I had made a few changes to my lifestyle which helped with depression, and I felt ready to tackle that next step. I remade my resume using your advice, I networked using your advice, I prepared for interviews using your advice… I was going to make you proud! Two weeks ago, day of the third and final interview, I walked to their office feeling like a badass, listening to your breathing exercises, and I CRUSHED it. Well, at the time, I didn’t feel like it, but on the way out, the manager started talking about how great the food was at the office and how I’d appreciate all the lunch options available and that’s when I knew I had nailed it! The wait was a bit long (too long in my opinion), but I just got the call AND I HAVE THE JOB !!! You’re actually the fourth people I’m telling, after my boyfriend, mom and best friend. Now, I have to go back to the podcast and listen to the resignation episodes. Thanks to you for being the voice of hope in times of darkness, for helping me, for providing some Australian comfort in the depths of French winter, and for being absolutely amazing. It’s my turn to keep you caffeinated, so you can keep the content coming, so I can keep building my career (it’s the ciiiircle of jooobs!) Thanks again! Your Number 1 French Fan!"📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Jul 3, 202429 min

S4 Ep 22What kind of manager are you / do you like working for?

If you're a manager who conducts interviews, there's a fair chance you might be asked about your leadership style. In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma unpack the different management styles to help you identify and explain what kind of manager you are. This episode is also for those who have left a role due to not seeing eye-to-eye with a manager. Reflecting about what kind of boss you like to work under will help you avoid ending up in a similar situation! If you know what management style you thrive under, it's a great idea to ask how your interviewers would describe their management style, to see it aligns with your preference.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Sabrina who bought us 3 coffees!"Sarah and Emma, hello from California and I'm excited to finally have a success story to share! I cannot express how grateful I am for all of your advice and support; it has been a lifeline in my job search. I am a career pivoter who decided to switch to design in the middle of applying to medical school. As a nervous introvert type of person, I have always struggled at interviewing and would go into fight-or-flight mode at every interview. I was able to avoid this issue for the most part because I interned at the same lab every summer in college and never really had to interview. As a result, I also never improved my interview skills or overcame my extreme interview anxiety. While interviewing for my first design job, I wrote out scripts and read them word for word because it was the only way I could answer the questions at the time. Somehow I got the job due to my portfolio and genuine passion for the company, but my manager later joked that I was "like a robot and almost seemed like I was reading from a script" (spoiler alert: I was!). After 2 years and management changes, I was laid off after being gaslit into thinking I was incompetent, too young, and needed a design degree to deserve a place in the field. Although tech mass layoffs are common nowadays, I was the only person who got laid off from my company and I felt immense shame and self-doubt for it. After meeting with mentors and getting honest feedback, I realized that I DO have what it takes and am worthy of the job I want. However, being dumped into the current tech job market was terrifying and although I managed to land interviews, many companies had intensive interview processes that I completely fumbled. Finding this podcast was a godsend, and I spent several days binging episodes. The podcast became like a best friend to me during these interviews: I listened before and after every interview (and laughed at the off-beat sniffs every time), while I was waiting to hear back, after rejection, and everything in between. Before every interview, I walked to my mirror and said 'You are the shit' in an Australian accent. I'm happy to say that I started leaving interviews feeling like I killed it and was finally able to let my personality and thinking process shine through during interviews instead of being a nervous wreck. THANK YOU again for all that you do!!!"📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Jun 26, 202429 min

S4 Ep 21Scam Alert! Do not get tricked by a job scam

Employment and recruitment scams were one of the top 10 scam categories in 2023 (according to the ACCC) which means people like you are being taken advantage of when they are looking for a new job.I know what you're thinking - you're way too savvy to fall for a scam... THINK AGAIN! These scammers are clever and they know how to take advantage of your emotions. In this week's episode Sarah and Emma talk about the different kinds of job scams out there, and how you can keep yourself safe. We even give you a new motto for avoiding scams online courtesy of our very own Assistant Treasurer.. "Don't click on the bloody blue link"🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Mark who sent us a message saying “Just had an interview and had this up there to remind me to clench!” and attached a photo that showed a post it note above his screen saying “CYBC” for ‘clench your butt cheeks’. Mark, you’re a legend.📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Jun 19, 202430 min

S4 Ep 20Interview prep and time management: what to prioritise!

Interview preparation can be so overwhelming, particularly if you're in a time crunch!That's why we want to make sure you're spending the right amount of time on each step of the process. Because it's easy to accidently fall down a rabbit hole researching your interviewer, only to realise hours have passed and you haven't even got anything of substance to talk about in the interview yet!In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma discuss what parts of preparation require hours of your time, and what can be done in minutes, if necessary, in a pinch.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Rebekah who bought us 5 coffees!"Hi Sarah & Em, you are both absolutely amazing! I have listened to almost every episode over the last 6 months since a friend recommended your podcast (she’s another Sarah) and you have helped me smash every interview since. I decided to leave my role as I had outgrown it, and had been struggling to land a new job in NZ, continually coming runner up for roles. It felt like a lot of work and time doing interviews to keep coming second place. My partner and I then came to the decision to move to Perth, and this made getting a new role even harder as I was applying while still in NZ. With all your tips and tricks, working on my short stories, and believing in myself, I ended up with two offers last week! I accepted one which was for my dream role with a global company, which had interviewed me in NZ for another role 6 months ago. They put in a good word for me and now I have an incredible remote / travel role with lots of opportunity for growth, and I have increased my salary by 50%! Thank you both again so so much, you kept my spirits up through the whole process with amazing banter and tips. I have told everyone I can to listen to your podcast!"📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌 Follow us on Instagram💻 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.auMentioned in this episode: The BEST way to prepare for a job interview

Jun 12, 202422 min

S4 Ep 19How have you championed diversity, equity & inclusion in the workplace?

Many companies prioritise diversity within their workplaces and therefore are keen bring the conversation into the interview process. BUT it can be really tricky to come up with your own examples, even if you're the most inclusive person in the world!In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma explain what employers are looking for when they ask this question and brainstorm a range of out-of-the-box ideas that you might not have considered!Hint: You don't have to have created groundbreaking diversity polices in order to answer this question - your examples can be small but impactful!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Isabella - Interview Academy Alumna!"Hi!! Just had my 2nd round panel interview yesterday, that also includes a 15 minute micro training demo. After following the interview academy for 3 days, I walked in feeling good about the stories about my best bits AND solid about my career story - huge for a career transitioner like myself. Did I forget to mention some aspects of my stories (even with bringing a notebook)? Yes. But I’m going for progress over perfection when it comes to this interviewing process, and I’ve never felt better walking out of one than I did yesterday! I did the best I could, and that’s all I can ask for."📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌 Follow us on Instagram💻 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.auMentioned in this episode: Equity vs Equality Cartoon

Jun 5, 202422 min

S4 Ep 18Am I being automatically rejected for not meeting the exact screening questions?

Am I being automatically rejected from a job for not meeting the exact screening questions?That is the question we answered in this week's episode, after Elizabeth, who has 3 years' experience and was applying for a role asking for 4, sent us her conundrum!The short answer? It's very unlikely - so keep shooting your shot!Screening questions are used to save recruiters time, and, in most cases, a recruiter is still looking at your application. The questions have just made it easier for them to filter through the candidates.Give this episode a listen to hear what advice Sarah and Emma have for Elizabeth.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Jess who bought us 5 coffees!"Emma + Sarah, eternal thanks for the absolutely thoughtful, empathetic, actionable and just generally rad podcast! I found your podcast after my initial phone screen, and I listened to episodes in between every following round until I was finally offered the job!!! This 100% includes the listen to this before/after episodes. The sniffing on time disagreement during deep breaths made me chuckle every time I heard it and made my anxiety melt away. I would buy the coffees just for that magic alone, but I must also credit you both for a great perspective on the job hunt and interviewing...I think I probably could have gotten this job without listening to this podcast, but I don't think I would have felt so confident, engaged, and powerful in the process. I left every interview feeling like I had shown up in a great way, but also that I had gotten useful information about the company that would ultimately help me make my decision. Big thanks all the way from Missouri USA for cheering us all on to become interview bosses!"📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌 Follow us on Instagram💻 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

May 29, 202418 min

S4 Ep 17The company has HORRIBLE reviews - how do I ask about them?

We’re tackling a listener's question about how to handle bad company reviews when you have an interview lined up. We get it - even if you’re desperate for a job, you don’t want to end up somewhere toxic. But don't worry, we've got you covered. In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma talk about what really makes those reviews a red flag and how to tell if they're something you should be concerned about. We're also here to give you the confidence to bring up these reviews during your interview. Yes, you can totally ask about them, and we'll show you how to do it without sounding negative or worried. We'll share tips on how to phrase your question just right, so you can get the answers you needRed flags episodehttps://player.captivate.fm/episode/fbec4eda-a4b5-4ac8-898b-23af4d7d67ed🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Ella “Hi Emma and Sarah! I want to extend my deepest gratitude to both of you for producing amazing content. Recently I graduated from university and I felt anxious about landing a job. I thought I was going to land a job offer from a company I loved and envisioned myself in after two interviews. However things happen for a reason and I kept on applying. Eventually a company (which I totally forgot about) that I applied to reached out for an interview. Upon the days leading up to it, I found your podcast and felt so at peace and relaxed. Right before I walked in, I listened to the “Listen to this before an interview” episode and felt extra confident. My buttcheeks were clenched the entire time! After meeting, I felt connected with the staff and the work environment at this company. Naturally I listened to the episode “Listen to this while you’re waiting to hear back” and quite literally trained my mind to forget about this company…Just a few moments ago I received an offer letter.”📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching 💌 Follow us on Instagram💻 Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.auMentioned in this episode:Want to support the show? Buy us a coffeeBuy Us a Coffee

May 15, 202423 min

S4 Ep 16Why rage applying for new jobs might be a good idea!

Have you ever had bad day at work and retaliated by going home and firing off multiple applications to new jobs in a fit of rage? You're not alone!A recent study by recruitment specialists Robert Walters found 65% of surveyed Australian professionals admitted to taking part in the trend, with toxic workplace culture, poor work life balance and an unmanageable workload to blame! In the U.S, 67% of professionals admitted to having been a rage applier in the past 6 months.In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma discuss the pro's and con's of rage applying (hint: sometimes it can be the catalyst you need to improve your situation!)🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Carolyn who bought us 5 coffees!"Hey Emma and Sarah. A fellow ‘Bosser’ got me onto your wonderful podcast after I admitted I was terrified of entering back into the domain of job interviews after 12 years at my job. To me, it was like getting back into dating scene…all sweaty palms and nerves. The company I worked at for 12 wonderful years was purchased and they slowly made everyone redundant, so I was a little bit flat. I took a good six months off to be with my family as my dad had passed away the year before and just did life admin and enjoyed my young family. I have been religiously devouring your episodes since the start of the year. It’s not just your no BS advice that I love and the little pep talks, sometimes I think I just found your dulcet voices relaxing. I have a bit of a niche job and I found the perfect job advertised and went hard, practiced all my best stories, weaved in the ‘so what’ and the backgrounds and it helped so much. I even used your cover letter and I was so honest about who I am. It all helped. However, I did bugger up one of my email addresses (even though you have warned of this exact thing!!!) and so missed my first interview. I managed to salvage it and carry on (minus a few grey hairs). I have just been offered the role and I’m thrilled. Then I went to negotiate on flexibility. They had sent me a 22 page doc on how flexible they were with work options prior to my first interview (the one I didn’t miss) and one of my interviewers talked about how a couple of people in her team are 4 days. So I thought no problem…I’ll ask for 4 instead of 5. They said ‘no’. I was a bit surprised and on the back foot and suddenly my dream job is looking like it might blow up with 3 small kids at home. I felt like if I pushed it they would simply offer it to the next person. So I accepted, but feeling a bit uneasy about it all. I trawled your episodes for one about discussing flexibility if you have family, carer or other commitments but I couldn’t see it. So I’m sending out a huge thank you for being such lovely legends in my ears and getting me through…but also a little SOS on what to do? I’m getting mixed advice…so would love to hear yours. Thanks again Boss ladies.”☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

May 8, 202421 min

S4 Ep 15Yes, you can and should prep small talk for your interviews!

Here at Interview Boss, we believe preparation goes a long way in helping to combat nerves - and yes, you can even prep your small talk!We can almost guarantee you'll need to engage in some surface level conversation before your interview, whether it's when you're being walked through the building to the meeting room or while you're waiting for someone else to join a zoom call. It might sound lame, but knowing what you're going to say ahead of time, can free up your mental load. Plus, interviews can already feel awkward enough without having to come up with small talk on the spot!In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma share their favourite go-to small talk topics to inspire you to come up with your own!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Megan who bought us a coffee!"I can't tell you how much this podcast has shaped my career. I started listening to the pod while working as a receptionist at a job I hated. Your podcast helped me move from that dead-end job to a legal position, inspiring me to attend law school. I am happy to announce that using my "best bits" I just landed my first job as a law clerk at an immigration firm! I never thought I would be in this position. I am the first in my family to attend grad school and am now involved in work I am passionate about. Your words of encouragement allowed me to dream bigger and present my best self. THANK YOU! Megan Oregon USA."☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

May 1, 202416 min

S4 Ep 14How to actually survive a toxic job and micromanager (temporarily)

We know many of our listeners find us because they're desperate to get out of a job that's making them miserable!If you've already decided that you need OUT ASAP, then this episode is for you! Sarah and Emma share their own toxic job horror stories, and give practical tips to help you tread water and survive the last couple of weeks/months until you're out of there.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Deborah who is an Interview Academy Alumna!“Hi! I found out about Interview Academy through the podcast about a week before an interview at a really great organisation. I'm so glad because I'm not the best at prepping for Interviews and I get very nervous during them. This was also going to be my first job interview related to my recent bachelors degree that I went back to University for. With the course and lots of practicing of my best bits, I think I did quite well! It was probably my best interview ever and the interviews were even nodding their heads and smiling at some points. There were 1 or 2 unexpected questions that threw me off but I think I did ok with them. I listened to your pre and post interview podcast episodes and they helped so much too! No matter what happens, this was great interview practice for me and it increased my confidence! I also developed awesome best bits that will be invaluable as I interview for similar positions to break into a new industry!"☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Apr 24, 202441 min

S4 Ep 13How to start your interview answers if you're prone to getting stuck

Sometimes, starting your interview answers can be the hardest part. If you find yourself going blank or waffling too much before getting into your example then this episode is for you!Sarah and Emma share 2 fool proof ways you can start off your answers, with examples. Knowing you have this structure to fall back on can put your mind at ease and help you deliver your answer concisely!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Seth who bought us a coffee!"Hey Emma and Sarah! I am so grateful for your podcast, listening to you two really helped me out when I needed it most! I was let go from my job just a month before my first child was born, and I was absolutely distraught. I was able to receive unemployment checks for a few months, but things weren't going well in my job search. Then, after 3 months of applying, I finally landed an interview, but I had never worked in that field and had no idea how to prepare. I looked up interview tips on Spotify, and found your podcast! It really boosted my confidence and I gave a great interview! Unfortunately, I was not selected for that job but I didn't let that get me down. I redoubled my efforts and kept to it. After a few more interviews, and a few more weeks ticking down to the end of my unemployment checks, I finally landed a job that paid well enough for my family's needs. The problem was that I had no interest in that field and they wanted me to live, breathe, and dream about the job. After the first week, I knew that I wasn't cut out for the job. It was very disheartening but I went back to the job search. I found a job that had just been posted by a company I had been interested in for years but had never found an opportunity to apply. I applied for the job on a Friday and checked back on the online application Monday morning. My heart dropped when it said "Not Selected by Employer" but I couldn't stop thinking about it all day. This next part felt pretty ballsy, but listening to your podcast gave me the confidence to believe in myself. After work, I drove down to the office of the place I applied and talked to the person at the front desk about how I had just applied and how interested I was in the work they do. The person at the desk had me wait a moment while they got someone for me to talk to and came back with the OWNER OF THE COMPANY! He did an impromptu first interview right there and scheduled me for a follow-up interview later that week. I nailed the follow-up and got a job offer the next day! I offered a two-week notice at the job I had just started, but since I was so new they let me decide if I wanted to stay the two weeks or not. I decided not to and started my new job the next day! I love my new job, and am so happy and proud of myself for having the confidence to go out and get what I want! Thank you SO MUCH for helping me get here! I wouldn't have done it without you!" ☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Apr 17, 202416 min

S4 Ep 12Why we're not using the word 'REJECTED' in the job search anymore!

The job search process can be brutal and getting knocked back repeatedly can really affect your self esteem. But what if the language you're using is only making things worse and fueling a confidence spiral? Our words are SO powerful!In this week’s episode, Emma and Sarah delve into the true definition of the word 'rejected' and why we are officially banning our listeners from using it. It's time to ditch the negative self talk and reframe your mindset.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to B who bought us 7 coffees!"Emma and Sarah, I cannot thank you enough for all the ways that you’ve helped me throughout one of the most challenging seasons of my life! I struggle with perfectionism—anxiously trying to avoid (what I perceive as) failure. Because you gals are honest, experienced, humble, fun-loving, and just flat out in touch with reality, you helped me stop disqualifying myself, start affirming my skills and experience, start internalising that I could learn new things, and stop trying to have absolutely everything figured out. Each job search has been pretty stressful for me, but my most recent one was especially overwhelming. I had just graduated from seminary; I didn’t know what kinds of jobs would be a viable fit for me (financially and otherwise); my wife and I were new home-owners and pregnant with our first child; AND my wife felt called to be a stay-at-home mom. About three months into my job search, a really exciting job popped up that my wife told me I’d be perfect at. I had seen the same job posting, but had written it off because I was fixating on the few qualifications that I didn’t have (maybe 10-20% of them) and ignoring the qualifications I did have (definitely 80%, no exaggeration). At this point in my job search I was convinced I’d have to take a job I hated in order to provide for my family, so I stubbornly focused on preparing for other jobs that were already on my radar instead of letting myself hope about this exciting one. But throughout pursuing those other jobs, I listened to more and more of your episodes, and they really started to help me see my patterns and name them for what they were: unhealthy, lacking compassion, ignoring my story, and out-of-touch with reality. Moreover, your wisdom helped me make the most out of a ridiculous interview process (at least 6 hours total!) with an organisation I came to observe as toxic; and your realistic optimism helped me be bounce back from that and be confident, honest, and prepared while applying for the exciting job my wife mentioned! Your generous breadth of content not only helped me nail the application and interview, AND GET THE JOB(!!), it also helped me transition into this new role with confidence and direction during the onboarding period! I’ve implemented many of your tips for after you get the job and my supervisors are quite impressed—if my supervisors were Australian, they’d describe me as “keen” (one of my fav words that you guys use). I feel like I owe you guys the whole first year of my salary lol, but my wife said we can’t afford that, so we’ll just stick with some coffees for now. Thanks again for being such a fun and faithful blessing to me and so many others. Blessings to you both on your journeys! 💛"☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.auMentioned in this episode:New To the Podcast? Start Here!Episodes For Your Situation

Apr 10, 202420 min

S4 Ep 11Why you might be getting GHOSTED!

We don't endorse ghosting, butttttt we're not going to pretend it doesn't happen in the real world. 👻 It’s the most frustrating and heartbreaking part of a job search. You don’t know whether you’re still in the running, or whether you weren’t the right fit.In this episode, Sarah and Emma discuss what might be going on behind the scenes and what to do about it. Hint: (nothing).🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Ione who bought us 5 coffees"Hello you wonderful, talented humans! Where do I even start Sarah and Emma? I stumbled (literally, I was out running in the dark...) across your podcast while in a blind panic after being invited for a second interview. I had really lost my confidence after the previous job I applied for invited me for SIX, yes SIX interviews, only to let me down in the last round. I was gutted and really disheartened, so when this interview rolled around, I was determined to make this job mine, I just didn't know how! After absolutely BINGEING, your podcast I felt my confidence growing. The storytelling technique was incredible and I found myself remembering all of my blindingly good best bits! Skip forward to interview day, I listened to the 'hype up' episode in the car on the way, I accepted the water, I sat up straight and yes, my notebook was front and centre... As the interview started, I instantly felt relaxed and that I had everything I needed to weave my stories into my answers. When it came to questions at the end, I remembered to ask one to each member of the panel, including the HR Manager (thanks for THAT episode ladies) and 1.5 hrs later they proceeded to tour me around the building and offer me the job ON THE SPOT! I am a sports marketer living in rural Switzerland so jobs like this don't come around too often. I honestly COULD NOT have done it without you Sarah and Emma. The confidence you gave was incredible but above all, you helped me feel less alone. Being on the job search is such a lonely and isolating process but you helped to normalise it and above all, you made me laugh. I can't thank you enough and have already passed you on to a couple of friends who are already hooked! "☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Apr 3, 202423 min

S4 Ep 10How to talk about THAT thing you're stressing about!

Here at Interview Boss, we believe it's important to own your own career story - even the not so great parts! But we've noticed people are SO worried about doing this, out of a fear of highlighting any potential pitfalls.Hundreds of people have DM'd us over the years asking how they can explain their specific, sometimes 'tricky' situation when applying for jobs.In this week's episode, we give REAL examples of how to address common job-seeker conundrums including taking time off due to a health condition, moving around a lot as a military partner, marriage breakdown, being fired from your last job and having dabbled in many different industries.We explain how you CAN share these seemingly challenging details, while crafting a narrative that showcases your strengths. Even if we don't cover your exact scenario in this episode, after listening, you'll understand how to address the situation authentically!🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Martina who bought us 5 coffees!"Greetings from Germany! I quit my PhD in economics a couple months ago after two years of feeling anxious, stuck and just absolutely miserable. Having only one year of work experience prior to starting the PhD, the relief of leaving academia was quickly replaced by absolute panic about my career prospects. I felt like I wasted the previous years and regressed both in terms of motivation and abilities. After a few meltdowns on my friend Rachel's couch, she recommended I listen to your podcast. She thought it would help me structure my job search and give me ideas how to change the narrative around my experience to become an attractive candidate on the job market. Just a few episodes in, my confidence soared! Working on my best bits, I realised I grew and learned so much in the years I spent in research! Using your guidance, I found a way to showcase both my technical and soft skills, and talk about my prior experience in a way that is appreciated in the private sector. Even more helpful were your tips on how to communicate honestly and convincingly about the desire to switch careers. Now, four months after leaving my previous position, I got the perfect job in an energy consultancy, where I will be working on energy transformation and decarbonisation in Eastern Europe! I am so happy my friend pointed me out to your podcast! I wouldn’t have managed without your wisdom and support. I am so thankful to you and will not stop promoting the podcast to literally every person who as much as thinks about switching jobs. You are doing such an awesome job!! Cheers and sooooo many thanks. PS: I also listened to your podcast so much, that my accent apparently changed and I now get regularly asked if I used to live in Australia."☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Mar 20, 202436 min

S4 Ep 9How to set your referees up for success!

We all know it's important to keep your referees in the loop when you're progressing through interviews so they aren't caught off guard when the phone rings. But what if there's MORE you could do to set them up for success and ensure they give you a GLOWING, detailed review?Our Aunty Sue shared this tried and tested hack with us, and we thought it was WAY too good to gatekeep. In this week's episode, we talk about how you can use the last step in the recruitment process to really STAND out and land that offer.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Kirsty who bought us a coffee! Here's a snippet of what she had to say:"Hi Emma and Sarah, firstly thank you so much for your podcast and what you do! I believe I am a living, breathing, and walking existence of your podcast advice. I found you in December 2023. I was receiving multiple job interviews but I could never nail an interview and would always finish them feeling sad and disappointed that I wasn’t able to articulate myself. I searched up 'interview' in Spotify on my daily walk and lo and behold, there you guys were. At this point, I did not realise my whole life was about to change. I became obsessed with listening to you guys because I felt such a change in my confidence. Fast forward to the end of Feb 2024 and I FINALLY landed myself a job at NSW Health as a health promotion officer, in an area I am so passionate about and where there is so much career progression/security in the company. Although the job I got isn’t end game and wasn’t my “dream job”, I realised it’s a stepping stone and there is no rush. I have my whole life to get to where I want to be and just to enjoy the process. My advice for others is to drop the 'dream job' mentality, it isn’t helpful. Last thing, KEEP ON BELIEVING IN YOURSELF and work on those areas where you think you’re failing and I promise you will get there. "☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Mar 13, 202425 min

S4 Ep 8Struggling to land a remote job? Here's why it's getting harder!

If there's one thing we can thank COVID for - it's normalising working from home! During the pandemic, most companies had no choice but to allow employees to work remotely and the amount of remote jobs being advertised skyrocketed! But as we transition into the recovery phase of the pandemic, companies are increasingly ordering their workers back into the office - at least on a part time basis.Unfortunately this means remote jobs have become EXTREMELY competitive!In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma talk about why your resume will be the most important part of the application process and what jobs and industries are more likely to offer remote work. We also explain why considering a hybrid role might be a great plan B.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Sara who bought us 8 coffees!"I just came out of my interview and I nailed it! I'm not so worried about whether I get the job or not, I'm just so happy that I did a good interview! I cannot begin to express how much you helped me. I am a chronic procrastinator but this time I found your podcast and listened to it while I was avoiding the task at hand. I went interview outfit shopping, I cleaned my house and went for runs, the whole time listening to you. All of your advice was spot on, you really have something special. Much love from Ireland!☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Mar 6, 202424 min

S4 Ep 7We give you permission to be HONEST about what your old job was REALLY like!

If you're interviewing after leaving a shitty job, there's a good chance you've been told that you should 'never talk bad about a previous job or employer.' It's career advice that's been passed down through generations, and while it has merit - we're worried our listeners are taking the advice TOO seriously and are scared to share any honest thoughts about previous jobs in interviews. In this week's episode, Emma and Sarah give you permission to talk 'bad' about previous employers.We help you understand the difference between playing the blame game/venting VERSUS painting an accurate picture of why you left, to help your interviewer understand how you got here, and what you'll be looking to AVOID in this new job.We give you REAL examples of how you can tell the truth about awful situations, without harping on.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Interview Academy Alumni Sam! "Y'ALL IT WENT SO WELL. I was very nervous going into it, and was beating myself up a bit for not spending enough time in the course as prep, but I am very, very happy with how the interview went! I felt like my strengths (building rapport with interviewers) were emphasized even more, I felt so confident with my career story response, and felt like I had the examples I needed and the structured I needed to answer everything they asked. I also feel like I got a good sense for the company and the team I would be working with, and am even more excited about the role. Fingers crossed!!!"☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Feb 28, 202427 min

S4 Ep 6How to make your money work for you (long term) with Will Cant

In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma chat to Senior Financial Advisor Will Cant, and delve into the secrets of maximizing your money during job transitions. Discover how your income can be your most potent wealth-building tool and the pivotal role it plays in achieving your financial goals. Will shares invaluable insights on strategically navigating your career choices for long-term wealth growth, emphasising the importance of considering the trajectory of your income rather than immediate gains. Learn the art of discipline in managing pay rises, bonuses, and unexpected windfalls, avoiding the pitfalls of lifestyle creep. Find out why setting realistic budgets based on your current habits is the key to financial success, and explore the delicate balance between securing your future and enjoying the present. This episode is packed with actionable advice to unlock your financial potential and create a roadmap for lasting wealth. 🚀💰🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Hudson! "Emma and Sarah, I’ve been farming professionally for the past five years and have been struggling to get out of the field (pun not intended) and into something with more stability for a while. I found y’all’s podcast in September and it totally changed my approach to job interviews. I don’t come naturally to bragging about myself, so I find interviews hard. Between that, trying to change fields, and general disrespect for farmers and blue collar workers as a whole, I was having trouble landing anything. Finally, after months of applying and interviewing, I was offered and accepted a non-profit job I’m really excited about! The environment seems great and it offers the stability I’ve been looking for. Also, you wouldn’t believe how thrilled I am to not have to work outside in all kinds of weather anymore! Thanks for putting this podcast out there, it truly has been such a help to me and I don’t know if I would have gotten here without y’all. —Hudson"💰 Wealth with Will - Tiktok Instagram LinkedIn📕 Will's Book PicksThe Psychology of Money - Morgan HouselBe Useful - Seven Tools for Life - Arnold SchwarzeneggerBen Nash's Books☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss📄 To get step by step help with your interview prep on demand check out our Interview Academy https://www.interviewboss.com.au/interview-academy💌  Follow us on Instagram💻  Check out our website for free jobseeker resourceswww.interviewboss.com.au

Feb 21, 20241h 0m