Interview Tips Interview Tips

Do you have a map / directions?
Have you details about the company and the job? Use the Internet or library to gain additional information on products and financial status.
Are you certain of the name, position and pronunciation of the person(s) you are meeting?
Dress appropriately; all kinds of assumptions are made on the appearance people present in the first three minutes.
Be punctual allowing plenty of time to find the location, park the car etc.

Have you prepared yourself to answer standard interview questions such as;

Why did you choose a career in ………………?
Why do you want to (or why did you leave) your current employer?
What are your strengths / weaknesses?
What have been your greatest achievements and why?
What skills can you bring to this role?
What ambitions do you have for the future?
Are you willing to relocate?
What does teamwork mean to you?

Have you prepared a list of questions you may wish to ask the interviewer? Such as;

What is the company’s strategy and business plan
Can you give me a detailed description of the position
Why has the position become available
What is your potential career path within the organisation
What induction/training is given/available in this role
Can you describe the culture of the company

At the interview

Remember to smile.
Wait until you are offered a chair before sitting.
Treat the receptionists and secretaries with courtesy.
Take the interview seriously your attitude is every bit as important as your qualifications.
Look the interviewer in the eye. Look and act alert.
Be enthusiastic and show you are reasonably informed about the organisation and the role.
Listen when the interviewer is talking but by all means ask intelligent / searching questions.
Avoid one word answers (especially No).
Be honest, but also ensure you actively promote your skills and potential.
Do not over answer questions.
Stick to the point.
If you are not sure, or do not understand the question always ask for clarification.
If you have any doubts about the vacancy or the company you should keep them to yourself during the interview.
If you do not know the answer to a question, say so.
As the interview draws to a close ask how you have done. If the interviewer is evasive or negative ask them to clarify their reservations.
Then respond positively outlining your strengths.

At the end of the interview ask questions such as;

What is the next stage of the selection process?
Is there another interview, if so, who will be attending, when will this be arranged, what will be the objective?
How many people are left to be interviewed?
How do you compare to the other candidates?
How will a decision be made and by whom?
Thank the interviewer for his or her time

After the interview

On return – always call or email us with your feedback so we can progress the opportunity with the client.