Purpose of the Interview

Most employers select people for jobs by interviewing them. It is a chance for the interviewer to find out more about you. It should also be an opportunity for you to ask questions and discover whether or not it is the type of job you think you would like.

Before the Interview

• It is important to find out as much as possible about the organisation and the job. If possible, try to find out about the company and the job before you go for interview. This shows initiative and will help you answer the questions.  You can do this by looking at the company website, organising a visit or by telephoning.  Find out:

1. where its headquarters and branches are
2. what service it provides or what it produces
3. who the main competitors are
4. where the main market is
5. staff numbers

• Make a list of possible questions you might be asked and prepare your answers.

1. Your skills and experience relevant to the post?
2. Your strengths and weaknesses?
3. Qualities you would bring to the job?
4. Breakdown of skills/experience in each part of the post?
5. Past Achievements?
6. Reasons for leaving your current position? Always have a positive response.
7. Which parts of the potential job appeal to you the most?
8. Why should we employ you?

• Practice your answers aloud; this will increase your confidence when answering questions at interview.
• First impressions have a real bearing on an employer's perceptions. Always dress like a professional, in a smart suit, with a clean, ironed shirt and tie (or blouse) and freshly polished dark shoes. Do not wear casual clothes even if you know that it is company policy. Aim for a neutral rather than flamboyant look.
• Know where the interview is being held and how to get there.  Think about a practice run of travelling to where the interview is being held so that you know how long it will take you to get there.
• Ask before the interview if you can visit the company; this shows you are keen and is an opportunity to learn about how the company works before your interview.
• Allow plenty of time for traffic and public transport running late.  Be there a few minutes early so that you have time to relax before you are called.
• If you are delayed, telephone and let the firm know you will be delayed and explain why - it creates a bad impression if you arrive late!
• Know the name of the person you have to see and his/her position in the organisation. Write it down if you are likely to forget.
• Step into the interviewers’ shoes. What exactly are they looking for from you? Imagine yourself in the interviewers’ place and try to get a feel for what they need from you. Once you can do that effectively you will be able to build a relationship with them from the first moment of the interview.
• An interview may last 15 minutes or up to an hour. You will be asked many questions - some straightforward and others more complicated.
• Prepare some questions to ask at the interview
• Read over the job description and personnel/job specification.  The questions at interview are normally based on this document.

1. How will this role develop?
2. Will I be provided with training if I am successful?
3. How long will the induction last?
4. Who else will be on my team if I am successful?

The Interview

• No matter how many interviews you've been through, they can be nerve-racking and stressful experiences. The best way to reduce stress is preparation. The more prepared you are the less nervous you will be.  Presentation is the key: look good - feel good.
• Creating a good rapport is important. Greet your interviewer by name, with a smile and a firm hand shake. Throughout the interview maintain eye contact with your interviewers, watch your posture and let your personality shine through.
• The first question at interview is normally a broad question such as, “What are your skills and experience”.  Give an overview of past experience and an outline of what you did.  Focus on things you did particularly well and highlight skills that you know they are looking for.  Remember that skills are transferable so even if you have limited work experience you may have developed the skill in your personal life.
• Don't waffle or avoid difficult questions. When you are asked questions, remember that this is an opportunity to sell yourself. Try not to give "yes" or "no" replies. Know your application form. Always give practical examples of when you are answering a question.
• If you are interested in the job, make sure you let the interviewers know before you leave by stating why you like the role and thank the interviewers for their time.
• Be a good listener - actively listen to the question and answer it - as well as a good talker.
• If you need a question explained or repeated just ask the interviewer. Keep your answers relevant to the interview question and do not ramble. You may have an interesting story to tell or a great skill but if it is not required in the job don't mention it.
• Smile and maintain eye contact.
• Sell yourself: describe your achievements and how you feel they could apply to the prospective role; always conduct yourself as though you are determined to get the job you are discussing. Never close the door on an opportunity.
• Be honest; if you try to oversell yourself by saying things that are not true you could trip yourself up.
• Thank the interviewer panel for their time

Remember you can REGISTER WITH US if you need more help.