As a recruiter, I often meet candidates with impressive backgrounds who don’t quite hit the mark in interviews - not because they lack experience, but because their delivery lets them down. The truth is, how you present yourself can be just as important as what you’ve done.
Preparation is key. Before the interview, take the time to thoroughly read the position description. Understand the role, the responsibilities, and the qualities the organisation is looking for in their next hire. Go beyond the job ad - research the organisation’s mission, values, and recent initiatives. This is especially important in the not-for-profit sector, where a genuine connection to the cause can set you apart and show that you’ll bring passion and purpose to the role.
When it comes to your opening statement, think of it as your elevator pitch. It should be a punchy, tailored summary of your career - not a chronological walk-through. Focus on the experience most relevant to the role and highlight how your background makes you a strong fit. This is your chance to set the tone and give the interviewer a clear picture of your strengths and the value you bring to their team.
Be ready to talk about what you bring to the table - your strengths, how you contribute to team success, and how your skills align with the organisation’s needs. Also be prepared to discuss challenges you’ve faced, how you handle stress and competing priorities, and areas where you’re still growing. Use real examples to bring your experience to life and always tie your answers back to the role at hand. Think about the characteristics they’re looking for and show how you meet - and exceed - their expectations.
One of the most effective ways to improve your delivery is to practice out loud. Hearing yourself speak helps you refine your responses and identify where you might be rambling. If your answers start to feel too long, cut them back. Keep your delivery clear, confident, and concise. Address the question directly, link it to your experience, and use examples to illustrate your point.
And finally, don’t underestimate the power of enthusiasm. Smile, show genuine interest, and let your personality come through. Cultural fit is often just as important as skills fit and showing that you’re engaged and excited about the opportunity can make a lasting impression.
To wrap up the interview on a strong note, have a question or two ready to ask. This shows you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the role and the organisation. Ask about the team culture, upcoming projects, or how success is measured in the role - anything that demonstrates you’ve thought deeply about how you’d fit in and contribute.
Interviews aren’t just about proving you can do the job - they’re about showing how well you’ll do it, and how you’ll fit into and enhance the team.
With the right preparation, thoughtful delivery, and a positive attitude, you’ll be well on your way to making a strong impression.
You’ve got this!