Interview Advice

You’ve put together a great CV and agreed to attend an interview. Now it’s over to you to get that job. Here are a few bits of helpful advice.

Show your interest in the role and the company:

  • Research the company thoroughly, look at their website, even phone in advance and request a brochure or company report.
  • Prepare a list of questions prior to the interview date.
  • Take a notepad with you and make a note of relevant points.

First impressions are vital:

  • Ensure that you are well presented, dress smartly and professionally and polish your shoes.
  • Allow plenty of time to get to your interview. Arrive early.
  • Smile.

Sell Yourself:

  • Mentally prepare a verbal presentation of your skills and career history.
  • Make sure that the interviewer is made aware of all relevant experience you possess.
  • Tell them what qualities you can bring to the role, and the organisation.
  • Make sure that the interviewer is made aware of your past achievements, especially those that you are proud of.

Remember you are interviewing them too!

  • Listen when the interviewer is speaking, and respond through the use of intelligent associated questions when appropriate. Don’t interrupt.
  • Don’t feel intimidated, feel confident to challenge them about the role and the company. It illustrates your interest and your levels of confidence.
  • Ask pertinent questions.
  • Appear confident but not arrogant.
  • Find out what they think of you:
  • If you like what you’ve heard, tell them how keen you are to proceed to the next stage.
  • Before the interview is concluded, ask the interviewer whether they have any reservations about your suitability for the role, whether you fit with the company culture, and the existing team you will join.
  • If they have reservations, try and overcome them if you can.
  • Ask them what the next stage is, and the associated time-scales.