Interview Tips
We've put together some essential tips for making the next interview you go to, the best one ever!
- Do your research on the Company. Go on their website and gather as much information as you can.
- Research the person interviewing you - a rudimentary search on Google might give some useful information.
- Arrive on time - if necessary do a dry run before hand. If the unforeseeable does happen, ensure you have the company's phone number and give them a call to advise what time you will be there.
- Wear smart business dress. A suit with a white shirt is always recognised as good manners, clean hair and nails, minimal jewellery and make up, polished shoes and minty breath go a long way. Remember those first impressions really do count.
- Take a copy of your CV with you.
- Be courteous and polite in reception - make sure your mobile is switched off, they may ask the receptionist if you were friendly.
- Always greet the interviewer by his/her last name and try to pronounce it correctly.
- Give a firm, confident handshake and positive handshake.
- Body language is key, sit up straight, do not cross your arms, lean in slightly to the interviewer and mirror the body language they are giving.
- Answer any interview questions by more than a simple yes or no - but do not go over 60 seconds.
Interview questions to be ready for include:
- Tell me about yourself - This is to relax you - keep to positives. Do not give a full description of your life but some key elements to give an idea of hobbies, where you studied etc.
- Why do you want to work for us? Talk about the research you have done and highlight why this attracts you
- Give an example of where you have used for example leadership skills - bring in every experience even if it’s not work related, you may be involved in a club or sport
- What are your strengths and weaknesses? Talk about strengths that are useful in the job and its fine to show humility, talk about an area you have struggled at and the way you overcame the problem.
- Where do you see yourself in 5 years time? Again this is down to researching the company but do not be too arrogant by saying you expect to be the Managing Director
- What is your greatest achievement? Make it relevant to the job. Identify the skills they are looking for and match them to the achievement.
- Do you have any questions for us? Prepare at least 15 questions to ask about, 5 about the role, 5 about the company and 5 specifically about the interviewer. It may seem a lot but most will have been covered and it crucial to show interest in the role.
Other points to consider when you're being interviewed:
- When you're asked why you are looking to move on, avoid at all costs complaining about your current job or employer. Think about positive reasons - make it all about the new company, your career prospects and your ambition to succeed.
- Do not answer questions about politics or religion if the job is completely unrelated.
- Always conduct yourself professionally, and if something goes beyond your control show a sense of humour.
- Do not raise salary discussions on your first interview, this is usually done at second interview stage – and yes there is normally a second interview!
- At the end of the interview try asking if they have any reservations about you, this will give you the perfect opportunity to give an immediate riposte. It doesn’t hurt to ask what the competition is like, how many people they are seeing and when the position will commence.