Career Advise – How to have an Inspired interview

Preparation is essential to the success of your interview.

You are now a serious candidate for the job. You now have the opportunity to demonstrate your abilities and suitability for the position. So be prepared.

DOING YOUR HOMEWORK

Company Details
Who are they?
What do they do?
Company Size?
Turnover?
Location?
Competitors?
Their website should give you all this information.

Role Details
What is the position?
What are the duties?
What is the department size?

Interview Details
Who is conducting the interview?
What format will it take?

Journey Planning
Visit our directions assistance section.

When you get there

Appearance
How you present yourself at interview will have a big impact on the interviewer. You have got to look the part, professional, competent and confident.
Businesslike suit, clean and ironed shirt or blouse.
Clean shoes, closed toe and heel
Hair neat and tidy
Keep jewellery to a minimum
Perfume and aftershave – just a splash
Good personal hygiene including fresh breath and clean nails

Body Language
Everything your mouth doesn’t say!
Your behaviour - the moment you walk in the building you will be watched by someone (receptionist/security).
Reading company or industry literature will not only take your mind off the interview but also demonstrate an interest in them and may also give you some useful details on the company.
Always be polite and friendly and make conversation with reception staff if possible.
When greeted smile and offer a firm handshake.
Take the lead from the interview whether the style is relaxed or formal.
Regular eye contact is important particularly when answering a question.
Don’t forget, keep your hands in your lap.
Do accept a drink if offered even if you aren’t thirsty as not only is it polite but it also gives you the opportunity to think what you are going to say whilst taking a sip.

Think Before You Speak
Show interest when being spoken to.
Listen carefully - if you don’t understand a question, ask for it to be repeated.
Don’t answer a question you wished you had been asked.
Don’t get flustered, speak slowly and clearly.
Be honest.
Never criticise your current or previous employer.
Express your enthusiasm.
Use every question to sell yourself and demonstrate your ability to do the job.

Always ask a couple of questions when given the opportunity
Make questions relevant.
Show that you have researched the company.
Ask about training.
Who would you be working with?
Any plans for the company?
What future plans are there for the position?
Remember the interview isn’t a test – it is an opportunity for the employer to assess your suitability and ability to do the job and for you to find out if the company and role is right for you.

Typical Interview Questions
Why do you want to join us?
How much do you know about the job?
What attracted you to the role?
Why do you wish to leave your current employer?
What skills and experience do you have that make you suitable for this role?
How do you cope under pressure?
What do you enjoy about your current role?
What has been your greatest achievement?
What is the biggest mistake you’ve made?
What did you learn from this?
What are your long-term goals? How are you going to succeed in achieving them?
Why should I employ you?
What skills can you bring to the company?
How do you liked to be managed?
Do you prefer to work as a team or as an individual?