Here is some information which may help you to successfully get over the hurdles of attending an interview! Some of them you may find blatantly obvious, but sometimes we can forget the most obvious things!!!

Appearance

Your appearance speaks volumes even before you’ve said a word. So:

• Be smart and well groomed. Always wear classic smart business dress
• Wear something you feel comfortable in
• Keep all jewellery and make up minimal and suitable for an office environment. Natural is Best!

Preparation

Find out the basic information about the company – employers are impressed by those who show initiative.

• What is the company product or service?
• How many staff do they employ?
• Is the company part of a larger group?

Find out about the job – learn all you can about the position in question and decide why you are right for the job.

• Read the job spec carefully
• Make notes of your relevant experience
• Note down valid points that you feel are relevant to the job in question
• Always plan your route carefully prior to attending an interview. Including train, tube and bus journeys.

 

Punctuality

Even if you are kept waiting you cannot afford to be late. Obviously we are all sometimes unavoidably delayed. If this happens, call and inform the client of the time you expect to arrive.

If your interview is out of office hours always take a note of the client’s number so you can call them directly. There is no excuse for not informing someone you will be late for an interview!

Structure of the interview

Interviews generally follow a set pattern. The interviewer will:

• Tell you about the company and the job
• Ask you questions to assess your abilities, personality and motivation
• Ask if you have any questions
• Inform you of the next stage of the process and when a final decision will be made

 

At the Interview

The questions you ask are equally as important as those asked by the interviewer. Treat your interview as a two-way discussion. By asking the right questions you can ascertain exactly what the job will entail. Following are some pointers when asking questions at an interview.

• Be confident, positive and look directly at the interviewer when you talk and listen
• Speak clearly, be enthusiastic and express a keen interest in the position
• Try to keep your hands still
• Keep to the point don’t ramble!!!
• Always be honest