The Job Search – Step 2
So, you’ve secured an interview and now you need to prepare.
If you’re not sure where to start, we’ve put together our best tips and tricks to help. From the moment you enter the building for an interview, down to the minute you leave – we’ve covered every angle! You can never be too prepared…
The Basics of Interview Preparation
- Do you know where you’re going, how to get there and who you’re meeting with?
- Do you have any relevant information you might need, and a contact number?
- Have you asked your recruiter for further information or advice on what the interviewer might ask?
- Have you looked at the company website, the job specification and reviewed your CV?
First Impressions Count…
- Do you look professional and presentable? Make sure you have the correct business attire on, look tidy and are ready to put your best foot forward!
- Have you given yourself enough time? Arrive promptly, allowing for traffic jams, train delays or any unexpected issues. Arriving 5 – 10 minutes early is a good rule of thumb.
- Having a friendly chat with the receptionist or anyone that you encounter while you wait is a great idea – the impression that you give everyone that you come across can make a difference.
- Don’t forget to smile! Give a firm handshake and make eye contact, be polite and confident.
During the Interview
- Be prepared to talk about yourself – what are your hobbies and interests? Keep it professional and try to link aspects to suit the role profile.
- Make sure you listen to what is being asked – answer succinctly and appropriately.
- Give examples when answering a question. Detailing actions and results specifically will highlight your skills and abilities that you can bring to a new role.
- Expect the unexpected question! You might have to think on your feet – take a few seconds to think of an answer instead of using filler words like ‘um’ and ‘ah’.
Any Questions…?
- Ask questions about the company – What are the company’s / department’s plans for the next 6-12 months?
- Express interest; ask about the next stages of the interview process, what timescales will be on a decision or when they are looking for a candidate to start.
- Ask about the role and assessment/probation period – How will I be assessed in the first 3-6 months? How will that success be measured?
- Ask for feedback; this will be a good opportunity to correct or discuss any points from the interview.
At the End
- Express your interests in the role and thank the interviewer for their time!
- Give feedback to your recruiter as soon as possible – they can relay this back to the company/firm and progress things to the next stage.
Considering all these points will get you on your way to having a successful interview – it’s also important to remember to be yourself and relax!
If you still feel as though you need to chat things through with someone – why not get in touch? We’d be happy to go over any interview preparation (or our own personal advice!) with you.
