Preparation
Your preparation for the interview should involve:- Gathering information on the company who are
interviewing you
- Establishing the location of the interview
and, if necessary, doing a practice run to make sure you get there on time
- Planning your appearance (in light of the
style of company you are visiting)
- Preparing some questions
·
Most companies have a web site
these days so you can access your own information. Use this company information
to ask questions but try not to come across as a "know it all".
·
Always be on time. All employers
will disapprove of lateness. The best idea is to arrive 15 minutes early and
wait out the time nearby, but not at the interview location. If you do
anticipate being late call the company.
·
First impressions last. Hair
should be well groomed; make up, cologne and perfume kept to a minimum. For
many office-based positions suits are required.
·
Wear appropriate attire for the
specific company but you should always be smart and professionally turned out.
·
List on a piece of paper all the
questions you would like to ask. We have attached some samples but use company
information to prompt questions. Likewise, think of the questions that you may
be asked and list those down also. This will help you work through the interview
process and allow you, to a degree, to control the interview.
·
Remember to be pleasant to
everyone you meet. It maybe that the receptionist is asked his or her opinion
of you after you have left. When the interviewer meets you, offer a firm
handshake, call the person by name, smile and maintain a comfortable amount of
eye contact.
·
It is highly likely that you will
be asked to explain you CV. Be sure that your past history is achievement
driven and be prepared to talk about specific achievements rather than your job
description. Be open enough to explain your successes or failures. Feelings are
important.
·
You must sell yourself. Be
enthusiastic and positive. Sell your experience, your willingness and your
drive and determination. Be yourself and be upbeat.
As the interview winds down the time comes to leave the
recruiter in no doubt that you are interested in the position. Phrases like
"...thank you very much for seeing me today, from what you have told me
about this position I feel it could be just what I am looking for; what would
be the next step?" or "...Mr Recruiter, based upon the information
you have about me so far, do you feel that I would be the right person for your
organisation and this position?" or finally "...Mr Recruiter, I very
much enjoyed our meeting today,
Interview Questions (to ask)
Can you tell me
a little bit about the people who work in the team?
How have others
progressed within the organisation?
Are there any
job related training programs?
What is the
decision process and time scale for this position?
To whom would I
report?
Who are the key
people I would be working with?
How long has
this position been open and why?
What will I be
doing the highest percentage of the time?
How long has
the company been established?
What is the
most rewarding aspect of this job?
When do you
want someone to start?
What sort of
person are you looking for?
Do you have any
company literature I can take?
Could I see
where I would be working?
Interview Questions (you may be asked)
Why do you
think you are suitable for this position?
What are your
good points/how would your boss describe you? (Strengths)?
What are your
bad points? (Weaknesses)?
What motivates
you? Why did you leave your last job?
Why does this
vacancy interest you?
What salary are
you seeking?
What do you
know about our company?
What aspects of
your last job did you enjoy?
What are your
long-term goals?
Where do you
see yourself in three years time?
Interview Mistakes
Poor appearance
Egotistical,
"know it all" attitude
Asking no
questions about the position
Inability to
express self clearly
Lack of company
knowledge
Mention of
salary or benefits too soon
Lateness
Unrealistic
goals
Lack of
professionalism
Being negative
about last/current employer
Do try and do the following
Make small talk
whilst walking to the interview room
Be positive in
posture and attitude
Concentrate and
make frequent eye contact
Give thought to
answering questions - it is ok to pause before answering
Be polite,
listen and look interested
Feedback is very important and if you are not successful, can
give you guidance and tips for your next interview.GOOD LUCK!
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