

Interview Boss
Interview Boss
Welcome to Interview Boss hosted by sisters Emma and Sarah Smith. This podcast is all about providing advice, inspiration and support for job seekers. Whether you're between jobs, or looking for your dream promotion, we're here to give you the tips, tricks and behind the scenes knowledge you need to be the boss of your career.
We'll dive deep in to all things resume, cover letter, job application, job search strategy, interviews and offer negotiations.
We're going to bring you a mix of advice shows, interviews with influential hiring managers, as well as job seeker stories all to help you during your job hunt.
Hit subscribe, and get ready to be the BOSS of your career.
We'll dive deep in to all things resume, cover letter, job application, job search strategy, interviews and offer negotiations.
We're going to bring you a mix of advice shows, interviews with influential hiring managers, as well as job seeker stories all to help you during your job hunt.
Hit subscribe, and get ready to be the BOSS of your career.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 30, 2025 • 24min
Are you scared to take credit for your role in a team win? It's time to stop!
Discover why it's essential to embrace your role in team victories instead of downplaying your contributions. The hosts explore the delicate balance between humility and self-promotion, sharing insights on how to communicate your impact effectively during interviews. Listen to a listener's inspiring career transformation and learn about the importance of accurately conveying your achievements. They also offer practical tips and resources to boost your confidence and shine a light on what you bring to the table.

Apr 23, 2025 • 32min
HELP! How can I sneak out of my 9-5 to attend an interview?
Got an interview coming up but stuck in a 9-to-5? You’re not alone.In this week's episode, Sarah and Emma tackle a classic dilemma: how to juggle face-to-face interviews while holding down a full time job.From negotiating interview scheduling, to making the most of flexible work arrangements, or requesting time off strategically, we share how to make yourself available, without raising eyebrows.It's a delicate balancing act, but these tips can help you navigate the situation without jeopardising your current job, just in case things don't go to plan. 🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Jorien who bought us 3 coffees!"“Hi! A few months ago I shared with you how Interview Academy helped me prepare. I ended with how confident I felt about the interview I did, and that even if I didn't get the job, I was still happy with how I did. Well, I didn't get the job. And the next lot of interviews also resulted in me not getting the job. I got better at doing interviews, which was great. I learned a lot. And I kept getting interviews, which was also great but nerve-wracking. The next round of interviews were great and after the second one they called within a few hours to say they chose me. Amazing! Except that I had another interview planned the next day for a job I had been talking about for years. I decided to do that interview and choose afterwards. It seemed like an impossible choice. I couldn't sleep and was so worried. But when I went in for the "dream job" interview, it turned out it wasn't a match at all for me at this moment. So I let them know the same day that I would not proceed and I accepted the job that is a much better match. So what did I learn? First: I'm a bit spoiled as I got so many interviews (in 5 of 9 cases I got an invitation after sending in an application) and I still felt insecure often. It is a hard thing. Second: most interviewers try their best to make you feel comfortable (also in panel interviews). Some don't, and that's really valuable information for you to decide if you want to work there. Third: Prepping really helps, but even with the best prep in the world, you will always get questions you didn't expect. If you are like me and can be too excited: limit your preptime. Thank you so much Sarah and Emma, your podcast and Interview Academy really helped me. Tomorrow is my first day, I am so excited. I also know that in a few years, I might have to do interviews again. Any advice on how to make sure I keep track during my job of best bits and future examples?"🎥 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/9de4c639-4ef5-4a81-a60f-a29a702fe67a/S3-E32-Telling-your-boss-you-want-to-leave.mp3

Apr 9, 2025 • 42min
The feminine urge to add exclamation points
This discussion tackles the fine line between warmth and professionalism in communication. The hosts dive into the nuances of punctuation, such as the controversial exclamation point and its effects on perceptions. They explore how emojis can confuse messages, especially across generations. Practical tips are shared for crafting emails that maintain a friendly yet confident tone. Listeners learn how to communicate assertively without sacrificing approachability, making every word count in their professional interactions.

8 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 21min
Can’t seem to get an interview? Here's your game plan
Stuck in the application stage? Discover why your resume might be failing you. Explore the job market's role in your search and learn how to tailor your application for better results. Find out how coffee chats can be your secret weapon. Should you apply for more positions or focus on fewer? Plus, hear when to consider bringing in professional help. This guide is packed with strategies to boost your confidence and turn that job search around!

Mar 26, 2025 • 18min
Waiting 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 19, 2025 • 27min
Can 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

10 snips
Mar 12, 2025 • 21min
Signs your interviewer has checked out (and how to get them back)
Ever felt your interviewer zoning out mid-answer? Discover the signs of disengagement, from wandering eyes to absent nods. Unpack practical strategies to get their attention back, like pausing to gauge their interest or summarizing key points quickly. Learn how to maintain an engaging conversation without oversharing and when to adjust your approach for maximum impact. Plus, hear inspiring listener stories about transforming anxiety into confidence during interviews!

Feb 26, 2025 • 26min
Why being 'memorable' in an interview ISN'T a good thing!
Standing out in interviews can actually backfire! The discussion highlights real-life examples of candidates who tried too hard to be memorable, only to harm their prospects. Instead of gimmicks, success comes from authenticity and competence. The hosts advocate for effective communication and a focus on mastering interview fundamentals. They also share a listener’s success story about finding a new job after years in the same role, emphasizing the power of tailored resumes and coaching in career transitions.

Feb 19, 2025 • 24min
How 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 12, 2025 • 24min
How 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


