Interview Boss

Sometimes in an interview, it becomes clear there’s a genuine mismatch. Maybe they're after three years of experience in an area you’ve only just become familiar with, or the role requires travel, which you can't commit to. In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma unpack how to gracefully pivot an interview for a role that’s not the right fit, into a valuable coffee chat instead. This one was inspired by a listener story from Carmen, who turned a dead-end interview into a brilliant networking opportunity.We explain how to politely acknowledge the dealbreaker and shift gears without burning bridges.Disclaimer: This isn’t a strategy for when you’re just not feeling it — it’s for those rare situations where the gap really can’t be bridged, and knowing how to handle it gracefully can leave a lasting impression.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Sam who bought us 3 coffees!"Wow! Thank you so much! I had an interview today for a job I really wanted, teaching children with learning disabilities, and received a phone call tonight offering me the position! I’m so grateful that I found your podcast. The few interviews I’ve had in the past I’ve normally fumbled my way through. However, this time I felt so prepared and confident with my career story, why I wanted to work there and my 'best bits'. They were super impressed when I whipped out the questions in my notebook after they asked if I had any questions for them. I didn’t even need to use my panic phrases which were also in my notebook 😂. Now I’ll go listen to the episodes about what to do once you have the job. Thanks again! P.S I remember Emma mentioned about writing down an achievement to add to her best bits. It reminded me of the app PepTalkHer that was created by Meggie Palmer.”🎥 Check out 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

There's a mysterious condition sweeping through jobseekers everywhere - and no one's immune. It's called 'Interview Mode' Syndrome, and it only flares up in interview conditions. Symptoms include sudden amnesia about your own achievements, robotic tone, and an uncontrollable urge to say 'stakeholder engagement' way too many times.In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma put on their lab coats to diagnose what's really going on when your natural personality suddenly disappears in interviews. We explain why this syndrome hits harder when it's your dream job or you're interviewing in a second language, and most importantly - how to cure it. It's time to ditch the filter and start communicating like a real human again.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Eirini who bought us 10 coffees!“My Kiwi friend introduced me to your podcast a few months ago. I have been job hunting for a while and was recently invited to interview for a job that would result in me changing fields, which is exciting but also filled me with doubt about whether I could really do the job or not. I found so many of your episodes super useful when preparing for the interview. I spent a long time writing my 'best bits', but the advice you gave about the 'tell me about yourself' question, about presentations, and so many other things has also been invaluable. Most importantly, writing the best bits gave me an overview of my career and, seeing in writing all the skills I have acquired, I realised that my transferable skills guarantee that I could do the job if I were to get it. This boosted my confidence massively. Overall, I have never felt so prepared going into an interview before. I had the interview yesterday and was told I will find out the outcome next week. No matter what happens, I know that I represented myself as well as I could have done. Enjoy your coffees and thank you so much for your amazing podcast. I have told many friends about it so keep it going!"🎥 Check out 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

Ever walked out of an interview thinking, “I prepared so much… why didn’t my stories land?” So many people practice their 'best bits' stories to within an inch of their life BUT they skip the most powerful (and hardest) step - proper thinking time.In this episode, Sarah and Emma unpack why slowing down to actually think about your stories (not just rehearse them) is what gives your answers real depth and confidence. They share how to dig into your stories, uncover the magic ingredient that allows an interviewer to REALLY understand the impact you had, and see all your incredible skills. For some of you, this ep will be the aha moment lightbulb game-changer you need.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Christina “Hi Emma and Sarah, I just wanted to take a moment to say a heartfelt thank you. A week before my big internal interview, I was feeling incredibly stressed and insecure, especially knowing I’d be going up against three colleagues. Your episodes on internal interviews really gave me the boost I needed. I committed myself to reviewing as much of your content as I could, and within 24 hours after my interview, I got the call: I was the successful candidate! My first thought was, “Thank you, Emma and Sarah.” Your work gave me the clarity, confidence, and calm I needed to show up as my best self. And thank goodness I didn’t slip into an Aussie accent and say “double plugger” during the interview 😄 I’m so grateful for the impact you’ve had on my journey. Thank you again for everything you do.”🎥 Check out 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

Having two job offers on the table sounds like the dream, but in reality, it can feel like a nightmare decision. Do you take the higher-paying contract role with less security, or settle for the lower salary in a permanent role that feels “safer”?This week, Sarah and Emma unpack a listener dilemma from Lizzy, who’s weighing up a permanent job at a luxury brand with average pay and worrying reviews, against a short-term contract role at a startup with a huge salary boost.We’ll break down the real meaning of job security (hint: it’s not always about being “permanent”), the financial trade-offs to consider, and how to factor in growth, culture, and risk tolerance when making a big career decision. Plus, we’ll share a thought experiment that helps reframe the choice and remind you that every role adds to your career story.If you’ve ever been torn between two offers, or just wondered what you’d do if that lucky day came - this episode will give you a practical framework to make the decision with confidence.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Regina who bought us 3 coffees!“I just wanted to say a big thank you for your podcast. I’ve been listening for weeks in the run-up to my diagnostic radiographer interview on Friday 12th September, both at home and on my drives to work, and it has made such a difference. I particularly like the way you break things down into the “best bits.” As a middle-aged woman with a lot of work experience, I found your guidance on structuring “tell me about yourself” so helpful. The episode about what to do when your mind goes blank was a life saver for me, as I can be a nervous interviewee. What I value most is that your advice feels practical and natural, not overly scripted. Even if I get a little derailed, I can always find my way back, and that gave me real confidence going into the interview. So thank you so much for the work you put into this. You’ve helped me more than you know. Btw, I got the Job! That's the best bit."Mentioned in this episode: The power move for juggling multiple job offers🎥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

Ever spotted your dream company online only to realise they aren’t advertising any roles? It can feel like there’s no way in, but what if you could create your own opportunity?In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma break down how to “shoot your shot” with a company when there isn’t a job listed. From crafting a specific, targeted pitch to finding the right person to email, we cover everything you need to know to get your name noticed. We’ll walk through the do’s and don’ts, how to research the company and role, and the best ways to follow up so you stay on their radar. Plus, we explain when this strategy is a good idea and when it might be a long shot.Disclaimer: This is a “shoot your shot” approach. It doesn’t guarantee outcomes. You might not get a response, and that’s normal. The goal is to put yourself on the company’s radar, not to expect a job offer.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Grace who bought us 3 coffees!"WOW. I’ve been manifesting writing this LOL and it’s finally my reality! I have been interviewing for NINE MONTHS and could not understand why I kept getting runner up. Well, I was starting to interview with a company I was really interested in, thought I flunked the recruiter call and then luckily got a call back for the hiring manager interview, just in time for me to come across you ladies! I binge listened while I was flying across the USA and realised… I have been interviewing backwards. I had a COMPLETE mindset shift going from guessing interview questions to focusing on my best bits. This was a complete game changer. I killed the hiring manager interview and the skip level interview (continuing to listen to episodes along the way). I just had the Team Interview left in person. On my way there I randomly decided to listen to the episode about if you have bad interviewers and while I enjoyed the people I talked with, they didn’t ask me a single question!!! Luckily I knew how to take back MY interview and sneak in my stories I knew I wanted to share. I got an email saying they wanted to offer me the role before I even got home. I’m so stoked!!! Thank you both for the time you spend helping people during a very vulnerable, stressful time. I’ve recommended the pod to everyone else I know who is interviewing - I have no doubt y’all helped me land this role."🎥 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

Being asked about company values in a job interview can feel like a minefield. Do they want a big-picture statement, or a real-life example? And how do you stop yourself from sounding like you’ve just memorised their website?In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma break down how to answer values-based interview questions with confidence. Whether you’re interviewing in healthcare, corporate, government, or any workplace where values guide decision-making, we’ll show you how to stand out.We cover how to remember company values (hint: acronyms are your best friend) and why specific examples are the key to success. You’ll also hear sample answers that demonstrate the difference between simply saying you align with the values and actually showing it through your work.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Lucy Kate who bought us 3 coffees!"GIRLS!!! You helped get me the only job that I wanted! I quit my old workplace in April due to being extremely burnt out and went backpacking around Asia solo, completely unemployed with no back up plan. 6 weeks after applying for a job, I was notified that I was shortlisted and had an interview (federal gov so it takes a long time). At this point I was in a village in remote Thailand teaching English to kids at a school. I binged all your episodes and prepared hard. I had to google translate to one of the teachers asking to borrow a blazer and asking if the school could let all the kids know to stay away from my room as my interview was in the middle of lunch 😂. I thought I did okay at the interview but overthought a few things. It took a total of three months to find out I got the role with the panel providing comments on how well spoken I was and how much they loved my examples I tied into the questions. I can’t thank you girls enough for supporting me in a very unsettled period of my life. I am now enjoying time with family and friends back in AUS before moving back to the other side of the country to start my new role in October. Massive thanks girls, you're doing gods work 🙏🏼"🎥 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

Losing hope in your job search? You’re not alone - but be careful where you turn for support.In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma issue a warning about the dangers of falling into online negativity spirals. From comment sections and forums it can feel like everyone is struggling - like the system is broken, and it’s you vs the world. And while there’s often a kernel of truth to these ideas, they can quickly become an echo chamber of hopelessness.Whether it’s job scams, ghosting recruiters or hearing “no one gets hired through ads anymore,” this kind of content might feel validating, but it can also derail your confidence, your mindset and your motivation.Note: This episode is the warning,  not the “what to do instead.” If you’re after mindset support or actionable info, check out these episodes:You’re Not Alone- How to Tackle Job Search RejectionHow Job Search can Affect your Mental HealthJob Search Myths Busted🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to JB “I promised myself that when I landed a job I would shout you guys the coffees you deserve.   Your help and advice over the past year of job hunting has been unbelievably helpful and I have upped my interview game tenfold. As exhausting and emotionally taxing as the job hunt is, I knew I was getting better at the whole process with each interview.   It’s been a rollercoaster, with so many “almost but not quite” responses and the neverending emotional tenacity that is required to keep picking yourself up again and again.   I start my new job on Monday: one that is right up my alley, a step up, close to home, higher pay and part-time. The vibe from the first interview has been fantastic, I’ve been myself, and everything has been easy peasy since. No mixed signals, no “do they like me?!” Like a good relationship, it’s been straightforward and friendly.   I almost gave up a couple of months ago and threw in the towel. Now that I am here, I am so thrilled I persevered. My gosh: to those in the thick of the despair that comes with job hunting, keep on. You will get there.”🎥 Check out our 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

Ever been hit with an interview question that feels like it has five different parts rolled into one? You start answering, then halfway through you realise you’ve completely lost track of what they even asked. Multi-part interview questions are the worst and they pop up all the time, especially in government, education, and healthcare recruitment.In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma break down exactly why interviewers ask these diabolical mega-questions, the different types you might come across, and how to tackle them without freezing up or rambling. From two-criteria-in-one to full multi-part criteria dumps (yes, they’re as bad as they sound), we’ll give you practical tools to stay calm, stay structured, and actually impress the panel.We’ll cover how to take quick notes without it feeling awkward, why repeating the question is your secret weapon, and the step-by-step way to break down your answer so you don’t leave out the good stuff. 🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Foxypee who bought us 5 coffees!"Thank you so much for your inspiring, comprehensive, practical, authentic, accurate, backed by evidence & real life experience podcast. I could go on with more adjectives but really I just wanted to express my thanks for everything that you so generously do in putting out your content into the world. It's so valuable that it really shouldn't be available for free! I recently went through a recruitment process for 2 jobs & had many rounds of interviews & I got one of them (it's the best fit of the 2!). After a 5 year break from being in a recruitment process, following your advice (ALL OF IT!) made such a difference to my confidence, performance & I'm sure the end result, right down to the salary & start date negotiations. Thankyou!"🎥 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

You’ve handed in your resignation and maybe even felt guilty about leaving your team in the lurch. But instead of a heartfelt send-off, you notice you’re left off meeting invites, your projects are quietly reassigned, and your manager suddenly feels distant. By your last week, it’s…crickets. Was none of it appreciated? Did you not matter after all?In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma unpack why a quiet exit can sting so much and why it’s usually not about you at all. From the loss of identity that comes with leaving a role, to the awkward “ex” dynamic of wanting closure from people you’re walking away from, we’ll help you reframe the silence and see it for what it is: practicality, not personal rejection.We’ll share why colleagues might not know how to give you the farewell you expected, how to separate your worth from your exit, and practical ways to create your own closure so you can leave on a high note. 🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Clara who bought us 3 coffees!“I can’t thank you enough for all the tips and support through the process of resigning from a job I never liked, to getting my dream job. At one point, I started loosing faith, because even when I was having the best interviews, thanks to your guidance, they would always go for someone with more experience. Today I had the interview that changed everything, it felt like I didn’t need to try so hard and I still got offered the job. I blame the endless hours listening to your tips, because interviewing went from something I used to dread to a fine art where I could sell myself and not even have to think about it. For now, it’s the foot in the door, it’s a short term contract, but it’s in my dream company, so I can only see possibilities afterwards. And even if there is nothing after the contract runs it’s course, I can’t put into words how much you have helped me to understand that the right job is worth waiting for and that I am worth it. Thank you again for everything!"🎥 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

Quitting your job can feel less like a professional decision and more like a personal betrayal, especially when your boss has been kind, the timing is awkward, or you just really hate confrontation.In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma unpack all the emotional landmines that come with handing in your resignation. From guilt and fear, to navigating tricky situations like quitting a job you just started, or leaving for a competitor, we’ve got your back.You’ll learn how to deliver the news without lying, oversharing, or crumbling into an apology spiral and get a word-for-word script you can use to start the conversation.If you’ve been putting off that dreaded chat with your boss, this is your sign to rip the Band-Aid off, and do it with confidence.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Alex who bought us 20 coffees!"Hi Emma & Sarah, Excuse the essay but this is a very big heartfelt thank you note. I have wanted to “shout you a coffee” for ages but wanted to hold off until I hit the goal of job change! I’m officially week two into THE job, and I couldn’t have done it without you. Truly. I’ve been a massive fan of your podcast for a long time (I might have a shot at #1 listener) and did a 1:1 session early on - back then I didn’t know exactly what I needed but the session prompted me to do some deeper digging and spend some time figuring out the journey I wanted to go on. The insights I gained from you both have helped me across a wide range of things: applying for Marketing Academy (I got down to the very last round!), getting involved in volunteering (with a selective interview round), how to approach some of the tougher career subjects with mentees & direct reports, & finally applying for new roles. I ultimately made the call to wait out for the big job…and patience and persistence have paid off! It’s a role that makes my tail wag and is a new industry that I can still bring my experience to. I’ve recommended you to just about everyone I know & will continue to. Your work has made such an impact on my life, and I’m so grateful. Thank you, you legends!"🎥 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

Internal interviews can feel super weird, especially when your panel includes people you already work with. Maybe it's your current manager, someone you had a tricky project with, or just colleagues you usually chat to in the kitchen. So how do you pitch yourself without feeling awkward, fake, or like you're stating the obvious?In Part 2 of our deep dive on Internal Interviews, Sarah and Emma share the practical strategies you need to prepare with confidence. HINT: It's exactly the same as preparing for an external interview, just with more nuance!We discuss the importance of explaining WHY you're applying for the new role, how much context to give when the panel should technically already know what you do and how to shape your career story.We also tackle office politics, like whether to tell your team you've applied, how to handle potentially managing your friends and how to ask for feedback once it's all over.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Lauren who bought us 3 coffees!"Sarah and Emma! I have been job searching since October 2024. I went for a big promotion at work and didn't even make it to the second round, despite doing the job in the interim capacity for six months. I was so bummed, but I knew I had to start looking for my next step. I have always interviewed well and thought that I had my preparation down pat. I discovered your podcast after getting a few second-round interviews and being the runner-up in those searches. I also became determined to be more selective in both my applications and interviews and truly interview my prospective employers as much as they were interviewing me. This summer I found a position that matches all of my talents and interests working as a public servant in local government, and I went for it. I had my Best Bits nailed! I landed the job after two interviews, one job assessment exercise, and three reference calls later. I am very grateful for your advice, your humor, and in particular, the psych-up and cool-down episode for pre-and post-interview. After each interview, I was only allowed to call two besties to vent and then put it aside, per your advice! Thank you again for spreading these best practices in interviews. I recommend you podcast often to the young people in my life who are just starting out this process! PS: I need to set the record straight on American coffee. I'm a Californian and want to say we have some of the best coffee beans (and wine). And some of us enjoy a straight cappuccino and espresso, and even a flat white now and then as our drinks of choice, okay?!! Enjoy your coffees! Much gratitude from California."🎥 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

Internal interviews can feel so much harder than regular ones. You're walking into a room full of people who already know you, so how are you meant to do yourself justice without feeling awkward, cringey, or fake?In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma break down the mindset blocks that come up when you're interviewing for a job in your current workplace. Whether you’re going for a supervisor role, a promotion, or just a new challenge, internal interviews come with their own set of mental hurdles.We’ll unpack the fear of reintroducing yourself to people you already work with, taking too much credit for shared wins, the colleague comparison trap, and how to handle the awkwardness, whether you do or don’t get the job.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Davis who bought us a coffee!“Hello or as my Aussie coworkers say, G’day! I am in California and have been listening to your podcast in prep to apply to an internal role. Every episode was so helpful and the resources you two provide are invaluable! I don’t think I’ve ever been more prepared for an interview and it’s all because of the insight you two provided! I was even ready to negotiate my salary offer but they ended up offering exactly what I wanted, funny how that worked out! Thank you so much!”🎥 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

POV: You’ve just stumbled across an AMAZING job ad on LinkedIn, but you immediately notice that dreaded “100+ applicants” warning, and suddenly, imposter syndrome kicks in. In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma break down the truth behind LinkedIn’s job stats and why that scary number might not be as intimidating as it seems. We unpack the four different “buckets” of applicants, explain how many people actually meet the full criteria (hint: it’s less than you think), and why being a good match still gives you a solid shot, even in a tough market.If you’ve ever felt discouraged seeing high applicant numbers, this episode will change how you think about competition and help you refocus your energy where it counts.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Celia who bought us 6 coffees!"Hi Emma and Sarah, I just wanted to say how incredibly grateful I am for your podcast. Earlier this year, I was laid off and the job market in my city has been brutal. I felt defeated and had to deal with all the lows of job hunting, including being ghosted by recruiters after investing so much time in interviews. I actually found your podcast while I was feeling especially frustrated after completing all the interview rounds with a company, only to think the HR contact was ghosting me. That’s when I came across one of your episodes where you talked about how being the backup candidate isn’t always bad. Fast forward a month, I realised I needed to shift my approach and the way you emphasized storytelling in interviews really clicked. I went to an in-person panel interview with six people and left them so impressed that I received a life changing offer. But here’s the twist. I ended up turning it down because I got an even better offer from the original company I thought had ghosted me. It turns out they hired internally for that first role, but a similar position opened up and they wanted me for it. I’m now a month in and I’m genuinely happy and confident, thanks in no small part to the skills, mindset, and advice I learned from you both. For all my fellow job seekers out there, don’t lose hope and focus on storytelling or your 'best bits,' as Emma and Sarah would say. Thank you both so much. Your work truly makes a difference."🎥 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

You’re deep in the interview process and wondering…is this place actually going to be a good fit?In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma unpack the subtle green flags to look out for throughout the hiring process - things that can give you insight into what the company’s really like to work for. From interviewers who clearly know the role and team, to honest conversations about the challenges of the job, to getting a genuine sense of the company culture and values, these clues can help you figure out if you’ll thrive there.While no single sign tells the whole story, these insights can help you read between the lines before accepting an offer.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Milah who bought us 3 coffees!“Dearest Emma & Sarah, I don’t know how to fully thank you. First, thank you for highlighting real people and their stories. It has helped me to feel like I’m not alone in the job process. Second, thank you for sharing your adorable Aussie accent, hilarious jokes, and amazing wisdom! After moving across the state almost a year ago, feeling frustrated in the job search, and recently deciding to leave my job due to unfair circumstances, I found out last week that I landed a role at a bank that I was really hoping to get after two interviews and with no banking experience! It has amazing pay and benefits, and I’m truly just so grateful. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that the timing of landing this job paralleled discovering your podcast! Thank you for helping me feel like I have something of value to offer employers and find my footing in showcasing that during interviews! I truly think we’d be great friends in real life. I love your content; I also have a sister in real life and love that you gals get to do this together. A couple of questions…do you guys love Bluey as much as we do in the states?? Also, is this allowing you to buy a real coffee? If so, from a fellow coffee lover, what’s your go-to drink order? Thanks again! Milah A, Michigan, USA”🎥 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:Beware of these red flags episode

You’ve prepped your best bits - epic stories that can be adapted to the key themes of the job like working with stakeholders, problem solving, and leadership. But when you step back and look at them as a whole…do they paint a well-rounded picture of you?In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma explain how even strong, adaptable stories can end up giving a one-dimensional impression if they all centre around the same kind of experience. Maybe every example comes from one job, or they all focus on high-pressure wins without showing your collaborative or day-to-day strengths.We’ll show you how to audit your best bits list to make sure you're showcasing the breadth of your experience, not just repeating different versions of the same narrative. You'll learn how to balance your story bank, fill any gaps, and walk into your interview ready to show the full picture of what you bring to the table.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Alice who bought us 5 coffees!“Hi Emma and Sarah! I am such a fan of the podcast. Your content is so fun and very digestible which is why I have been a listener for nearly 2 years. You have helped me on what has been a roller coaster of a job search so buckle up. I work in the legal industry and have been trying to break away from a paid internship type role into my first job as a legit lawyer. My dream was to move out of state and work in a certain job. I interviewed for this job the first time and just missed out (i.e. runner up candidate). I listened to your episode on being the runner up candidate which was awesome during this time. This gave me the kick up the backside that I needed to improve what I could control. I got a career coach to look through my resume and signed up for Interview Academy. After doing the course and showing off my best bits, I left every interview I got in the meantime feeling awesome and like I did my best. I even interviewed for my dream job, but I got so close and missed out. But it didn’t hit me as hard. Interview after interview, and rejection after rejection, after about a year of searching. I kept revisiting my notes, best bits, and your episodes to help me realise that I am an awesome candidate. You really gave me the confidence to realise that. One of these interviews was for a job in my home state. This was a lawyer job with such good training and experience. I got into a pool which I was bummed about at first, but then I went travelling and within a few weeks, got the offer! I will be starting a few weeks after I return. Even though I didn’t come out of the process with my so called “dream job”, I am so grateful that your help has led me to a bigger realisation. I realised that putting a job on a pedestal can be a bad thing and I am so happy with the job I got. I get to be with my family and friends for a little longer, gain awesome experience, and really evaluate what I want in my career and life. Maybe even get that out of state job when I’ve got experience behind me! You are amazing at what you do and give job seekers the confidence to never be ashamed of trying. My best bits will be amazing to someone - just like between the two personal assistants! Best wishes and sending love your way xx”🎥 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

“Why did I apply? Well… I need the money” In this episode, Sarah and Emma dive into a listener question from Abi, who asked how to professionally say she wants a job for the money, and because the hours suit her.We unpack why those answers don’t quite cut it, and what employers are really asking when they say “Why do you want this job?”Tune in for honest advice, real examples you can steal, and the shampoo analogy you didn’t know you needed.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Aaron “Hey girls, I’m Aaron. I just wanted to write in and say thank you! Your podcast was a little beacon of sanity throughout a very long, stressful and competitive interview process! I applied for my state's fire and rescue service last year, and followed along with your podcast for resume preparation, group assessment tips, interview preparation tips and guidance (those best bits kick butt!) and even on the advice like clenching my TOES! It did work! I found out last week that I am one of the very lucky few (60 from 8000 applicants) who successfully gained a position on a training course! I know I wouldn't have got here without the help of the Pod and you gals keeping me on track! Thanks again and unfortunately I don’t know if I’ll be listening in again - I hope to spend the rest of my career helping the community and keeping people safe! - but might tune back in just to see what’s new in the interview world! Thanks legends!”🎥 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.auEpisodes we talked aboutWhat to include in your career story to ace that first interview question!So... tell us about yourself - Part 2So... tell us about yourself (aka the art of storytelling)

Getting fired doesn’t have to stop you from landing your next amazing gig, but it can make things tricky.This week on Interview Boss, Sarah and Emma unpack a real-life listener dilemma: what to do when you’ve been let go from a job, didn’t get a chance to mention it in the first interview, and now you’re facing the CEO in round two.Do you come clean? Hope they don’t ask? Risk losing the offer?Tune in for our honest take on transparency in multi-stage interviews and how much to disclose.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Amy who bought us 5 coffees!“So after 10 years at my job in the tv industry I was made redundant and felt like absolute shit. I was definitely stuck in a rut at my old job and had no career growth due to management always giving opportunities to favourites and leaving me behind. After taking a month-long holiday, I started looking for jobs. I didn't apply to just anything, I wanted it to be the right fit for me and a good match. So the only job I applied for, I got a call for an interview 4 days later. Having not done an interview in 10 years I panicked and started prepping by listening to your podcast. I took notes, was totally prepared and absolutely aced the interview (the listen to right before your interview ep helped too!) and totally confident in answering the salary expectation question and put it back on them. They called a few days later for a "coffee chat with the GM" - but I knew this was actually a "second interview" and listened to those eps. Again I walked out feeling great and they called to offer me the job the next day. I negotiated my butt off to push them to the absolute max salary (thanks to you guys), and now I'm getting paid $50k more than my old job. And the funniest thing is the office is right down the street from my old work, so I will definitely be running into ex colleagues and I'll have a huge smile on my face when I do! It's pretty funny when I'm parking right outside my old work, they must be very confused! Anyway thank you ladies you rock!! Ep suggestion - navigating redundancy and feelings of worthlessness."🎥 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: you're fired

Feeling totally unprepared for a take home task or presentation in an interview? You're not alone.From pitching marketing strategies to solving a business problem or presenting what you'd tackle in your first 90 days, more employers are asking their candidates to show their skills, not just talk about them.But how are you supposed to provide insights for a company you don't even work at yet?! And what if they steal your ideas?!In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma address these common fears.We explain how much time to spend preparing, what the employer is looking for and why showing your thinking matters way more than having all the answers.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Lauren who bought us 10 coffees!"Hey interview boss queens, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your content. I was a regular listener for your podcast for about 12 months while I searched for a job (I am a project manager, working in commercial media). I networked, polished my resume, interviewed over and over again. I got close thrice (second interview, final stage) only to be rejected due to more specialised applicants. Your acknowledgement of how hard the mental struggle is to persist was really validating I'm so pleased to say I've just signed a contract on a new job which comes with a $17k pay rise, with commission and higher earning potential in the future!! It's a strategy & sales role, the perfect fit for me. Your interview tips, best bits packaging, and frank advice on starting with the resume, as well as how to network all got this over the line for me (I previously worked at the same company as the Head of Sales and reached out to them who invited me to apply). YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST. If I can leave my own tip, I always read 'The First 90 Days' by Michael D. Watkins when I start a new job, all about what to do in the first 90 days to set yourself up for success. I am so glad I can finally dust this off the shelf again!!! Thanks so much Emma and 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.auMentioned in this episode: Our episode on presentations

“So… tell me about yourself.""So...why have you applied for this job?""So...tell me a bit about your career."You're almost guaranteed to be asked a variation of this question FIRST in an interview, yet so many people gloss over it.In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma explain how this is a golden opportunity to fill in the blanks on your resume for the hiring manager and help them understand how your career path has unfolded and what's motivated you along the way.We share two examples of real career stories to help you understand the kind of powerful insights a great answer can offer, and how it can shape the way the employer sees your entire application. 🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Savannah who is an Interview Academy alumni!"Hello! Just messaging to give you some feedback on Interview Academy. I used the program to apply and interview for my dream job (internal application at my current workplace) and was successful! I was also told that this recruitment was particularly competitive. When offered the job the hiring manager and several panel members told me that they were seriously impressed with my interview skills. I even used my interview preparation for one of my best bits. I was asked 'tell me about a time you faced a set back at work and what actions did you take after the situation.' I spoke about my previous interview and how I wasn’t successful and received feedback that my interview answers were not detailed enough. So for this application I focused on improving my skills through using the program.”🎥 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.auOur other episodes on the 'tell me about yourself' question:https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/c6ee27a8-755d-45b3-b16b-299fd8beb19e/775907.mp3https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/e20c0cbb-e3a6-42c5-b5d3-3cb582b112bd/S3-E28-tell-me-about-yourself.mp3https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/f018e87c-806d-4f5a-b32e-7e126146577d/S3-E23-Avoiding-the-Topic.mp3Mentioned in this episode:New To the Podcast? Start Here!Episodes For Your Situation

From stressing about repeating yourself, to wondering if the hiring team is comparing notes behind your back, progressing through multiple rounds of interviews can leave you second-guessing what you're supposed to say each time.In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma answer a listener question about navigating multi-stage interviews without running out of things to say, using a dating analogy.We explain why it's okay to repeat yourself, how much interviewers actually talk behind the scenes, and why consistency is far more important than coming up with "new" examples.🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Katherine who bought us 3 coffees!“Thank you so much! Last Summer my husband accepted a job role in Sydney so we packed up everything in the UK and made the move in November. I left my job which I loved and started listening to your podcast a lot! In all honesty I thought it would be much easier than it was to find new work and even just getting interviews has been a real challenge. We’ve been living here in Aus for 6 months and I was starting to get a bit disheartened by the whole thing but… I’ve just landed an amazing new role with a fantastic organisation! I wanted to send a huge thank you, I used so many of your tips and insights and it really helped me to get more of a feel for the Australian job market which was invaluable. Up until now I also had a real mental block about interviews and thought I was terrible at them but your approach has made all the difference and I now feel that when I get an interview I can smash it! So excited for my new job and next adventure. Thank you!”🎥 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:https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/f48c441d-65e9-4dab-b8bc-6a3eb77ba0b5/S02-20-20E29.mp3