Being shortlisted for interview in the BIBAs is a significant step toward gaining major recognition for your hard work.
We know the interview process can be daunting, but it’s also a chance to impress the judges with your knowledge and passion for your business. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the interview and make the most of this opportunity:
1. Review your application. Go through your application thoroughly to remind yourself of the key points you made about your business. Make sure you can expand on these points and provide concrete examples to support them.
2. Practice your delivery. Practice answering questions with a friend or colleague to get feedback on your delivery. Work on speaking clearly, confidently, and concisely.
3. Highlight your uniqueness. Think about what sets your business apart from the competition and be prepared to articulate this during the interview. What are your unique selling points, and how have they contributed to the success of your business?
4. Be honest and authentic. Judges appreciate honesty and authenticity, so don’t be afraid to share challenges you’ve faced and how you’ve overcome them. Share your passion for your business and your vision for the future.
5. During the interview, expect to be asked about your business, your strategy, and your achievements. You may also be asked about your industry and how you’ve navigated any challenges. Be prepared to provide specific examples to back up your claims and be ready to answer follow-up questions.
6. Focus on outcomes. The judges will want to hear not just what you did but what that achieved. Be ready with examples that show clear and measurable outcomes. For instance: “We invested in a new CRM system for our sales team” will be more impressive if accompanied by “and it enabled them to close 20% more deals”.
Remember to remain calm and composed during the interview, and take the time to think about your responses before answering. If you’re not clear on what you’re being asked, it’s OK to seek clarification. And if you don’t know the answer to a question, don’t be afraid to say so.
We want you to have an enjoyable experience and the judges will try to make you as comfortable as possible.