Interview Tips
You have created a great CV, reached the shortlist for the interview stage - you now need to sell yourself face-to-face
Some people say that they love interviews and always get offered the job - this is not the case for the majority of us. Interviews can be a nerve wracking time as you not only need to sell yourself, you'll need to think through your answers swiftly.
Before the Interview
Making sure that you are properly prepared for your interview will increase your confidence levels and overall improve your chances of being successful.
Research
Make sure that you have had a thorough look at the company's website. They very often have corporate pages that tell you about the company's history, future plans, mission statements and locations. They will discuss services and products in detail.
If the business has showrooms make sure that you have had a close look. A SWOT analysis will help you assess the business in terms of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. You may well be asked to do this during the interview and give your professional opinion. This will also show your genuine interest in the opportunity and the business.
Compare the business against its main competitors.
Re-look at the advert that you have applied to and check over your CV details to make sure you know your figures and can answer questions on your career details giving working examples as evidence.
Practice questions and answers - take some time ahead of your interview to think about the types of questions you may be asked and also to prepare some questions you might want to ask about the Company and the position for which you are applying.
Plan your route.
On the Day
Leave plenty of time. Being late will not set the scene for a successful interview, you will feel very stressed and it does not sit well with companies. If you are unavoidably late call the interviewer or your consultant to explain the circumstances. Aim to be at the location 10 minutes before your allotted time - any longer and you run the risk of inconveniencing the interviewer and hanging around making yourself feel more nervous
First impressions count! Do not underestimate the importance of making an impact in the first few minutes of meeting your interviewer
Make sure you know the correct name and title of the person interviewing you and check pronunciation if necessary
Research the dress code of the company and make sure you look the part.
A firm, confident handshake helps and wait to be asked to take a seat
Eye contact is an absolute must - but don't stare. Remember to smile, watch your body language and no fidgeting
Make sure you have eaten before the interview but avoid strong smells and fizz
Remain positive and confident - showing interest in what the interviewer has to say. You need to demonstrate that you have passion for the role and are motivated
Build a rapport with the interviewer, use the time to ask questions of them e.g. why they enjoy working for the Company.
If you are being interviewed by more than one person address the whole room and make eye contact with each of them
Sell yourself - this is your opportunity to explain what you have achieved in your career, so ensure you are factual and concise in your answers and always back achievements up with solid examples
Listen to the questions carefully and if you need clarification ask the interviewer to rephrase the question. They will ask you questions aimed at understanding your suitability for the role. Be prepared for these questions through thorough preparation before the interview
Make sure that you have at least three questions prepared for the end of the meeting as the interviewer may have covered some of your questions off during the interview. Your questions will give the interviewer an incite into your personality e.g. asking about sick pay may indicate you intend to take time off. Better questions would be asking about their experiences whilst working for the business or training opportunities
At the end of the interview check the next stage of the process, thank them for their time and tell them that you have enjoyed meeting them, and finally give a good handshake whilst smiling
Absolute No No's
Don't criticize your past employers
Steer clear of heavy perfume/aftershave
The smell of stale smoke can be off putting, so if you are a smoker try not to smoke just before the interview - no matter how nervous you may feel
Don't interrupt your interviewer
Don't talk about other offers that you have been made, but by all means mention who else you have interviews arranged with
Don't be negative and always remain professional
Don't be so relaxed that you are caught off guard - don't swear and be careful with humour as sometimes it can be mis-interpreted
Don't spend too long talking about your early career - keep it relevant