Interview Advice
Some people enjoy the challenge of interviews but most of us find them a daunting prospect, particularly if we really want the job. Here’s some advice that may take the terror out of them and enable you to sell yourself and do your best.
Be Prepared
Before the day of your interview, find out as much as you can about the company. You can usually find out a lot about at business from their web site, and with free internet access at your local Library, you have no excuse not to. This is also an opportunity to prepare any questions you may want to ask to show your interest in the company. Your Recruitment Consultant may also be able to give you inside information and may know a great deal about the business, the interviewees and any tips to help you perform.
Be Punctual
Don’t turn up late as this will go against you and if you can, be at least five minutes early. If you have an unavoidable disaster, always phone the company to let them know you’re having problems and when you expect to arrive. Again, if you plan ahead you should be prepared with a map and an exact idea of how to get there – do a test run if needed.
Be Smart
Make sure you are well dressed. If you have one, always wear a suit – it shows a professional attitude. Avoid strong scents, dirty shoes or clothes, too much make-up or jewellery and don’t try to be too fashionable.
Be Calm
A calm persona will help you to create a good impression at interview so a few deep breaths before walking in, sitting up straight etc... will help you to look as calm and collected as possible. If you do suffer from nerves, don’t be afraid to say at the start ‘please excuse me, I’m quite nervous’ – an interviewer should always be sympathetic and do what they can to put you at ease.
Be Positive
Once the interview is drawing to a close it is your chance to ask any prepared question or your last chance to focus on any skills or abilities that would make you a suitable candidate. If you feel it’s true, it is also a good time to say, if given the opportunity that you would accept the role if offered. An interviewer will be impressed by your positive, confident and willing attitude. If there are two equally matched applicants, you saying this small statement, may swing the balance in your favour.
Be Patient
After your interview, it can be very tempting to hurry the process along but it is important to let the recruiters take their time and make their decisions. Your Recruitment Consultant should always keep you informed, but remember, you don’t know what’s going on behind closed doors and how long it could take to come to a decision.
Do
Be calm, breathe and sit properly
Present yourself well, sit straight and speak clearly
Be Positive
Don't
Be late
Criticise past employers
Answer a question with another one
Interupt the interviewer
Remember the inevitable Questions
Why did you leave your last job/why are you thinking about leaving your job?
Why do you want to work for this company?
What can you offer us?
