| 
We wish you luck for your interview and have every confidence in your suitability for the role. The following
suggestions below will help you prepare before the big day. Always remember, an interview is a two-way process:
for the client to find out about you and for you to find out about the company and the job on offer.
Do not feel pressured to act in any particular way; being yourself is a sure sign of confidence.
Preparation
- It is important to prepare before going for an interview.
- Find out as much as you can about the company, the job and the culture
of the organisation. Your consultant, local libraries and the internet
are all useful sources of information.
- Take a copy of your CV, certificates and references with you and be
prepared to highlight any areas of your experience which particularly
match the job description.
- Punctuality is of key importance. Plan your route and start off early
- do a dummy run if you’re unsure of the location. If you’re
late for any reason, telephone your consultant or the company to keep
everybody informed. You should aim to arrive 15 minutes prior to your
interview time to allow for filling out an application form.
- Prepare some questions to ask on the day.
- Offer precise and detailed answers to questions, highlighting any
previous experience. Be natural, yourself and positive. Never criticise
your last employer!
- First impressions count. Make sure you’re well presented with
suitable dress, groomed hair, conservative make-up and clean shoes.
On the Day
- Be polite to the receptionist and any staff you may meet before your
interview as they could influence the employment decision.
- Fill in your application form neatly and ensure there are no spelling
errors. Take your time.
- When you meet your interviewer, walk in confidently, shake hands,
make eye contact and smile. Sit down when invited to do so.
- Be aware of your body language. Try to avoid slouching, playing with
hair, sitting on hands, leaning forward in your seat or clicking a pen.
Sit up straight with your hands placed in your lap.
- Maintain eye contact and look as though you are enjoying the conversation.
If you do not understand a question, ask for clarification.
- When the interviewer asks if you have any questions, always have something
to ask. Saying nothing may display that you’re not fully interested
in the role.
- If you are interested in the position, say so. Ask what the next stage
is and whether the interviewer thinks you are suitable for the job.
Stand up, smile, shake hands and thank them for their time.
- Ring your consultant with feedback from your interview.
Questions often asked
at interview
- Why are you interested in this position?
- What do you like doing best/least in your current role?
- What are you strengths/weaknesses?
- What skills could you bring to this job?
- Do you prefer to work in a team or alone?
- What do you know about our organisation?
- Where do you see yourself in the future (short and long-term)?
- Why would you like to leave your present company?
- What motivates/de-motivates you?
- Why should I employ you into this role?
- How do you like to be managed?
- What was the hardest thing you had to overcome and how did you do
this?
Questions to ask at interview
- I’d like to know more about your organisation, do you have a
brochure?
- Who will I be working for and with?
- Are there any promotional prospects?
- What hours will I be expected to work?
- Are there any training schemes I could attend?
- What skills do you require?
- Do you think I am suitable for this role? If not, what areas are of
concern?
- What is the next stage? Will you inviting me back for a second interview?
- What duties would I be expected to carry out on a day to day basis?
|
