Interviews

Pre-Interview

Before attending an interview, certain steps can be taken to ensure, as far as possible, that the interview is a success.

Preparation is paramount.

Find out as much as possible about the company. First stops should be using the Internet. Companies large and small have web sites that will give you access to loads of background material.

If the web doesn't give you all you want, then call in or phone for a brochure and/or report and accounts.

Prepare a list of suitable questions for the interview. The company's operation, internal reporting structure and future plans are a good starting point.

Prepare answers for commonly-occurring questions such as: What do you know about the company?, Why should we take you on/What do you have to offer?, What are your weaknesses?, To the latter, never answer that you have none - the question is to see if you are self-analytical.

Check the time and date of the interview, the location of the company and journey time.

Learn the name and statue of the person/people you are seeing.

Look your best, wear a smart suit and clean shoes. Clean nails, groom hair and remove unnecessary jewellery.

The start of the Interview

The importance of making a good first impression cannot be overstated. A good start to an interview is essential, a bad start can be disastrous. Remember you are giving first impressions from the moment you arrive, always make sure you arrive punctually.

A firm handshake and a smile are a good start. A friendly greeting can go a long way to break the ice and dispel the nerves.

Attitude is also very important. Even if you have reservations about attending the interview, BE POSITIVE, the position may turn out to be exactly what you are looking for and you can always turn down a position, but you can not retrieve an interview after suddenly discovering you want the job.

Additionally do not smoke, and only accept a tea or coffee if you do not have to balance it on your knee!

Most of all try to enjoy the interview. If you do the interviewer will enjoy it too and you stand a better chance of getting the job.

Never sit back and expect your qualifications and experience alone to get you the job. Your personality is at least as important. Be positive and confident and you will stand out and be taken seriously.

If you are asked technical questions, listen carefully and use your common sense if you are not sure of the answer. An intelligent reply if not strictly correct will satisfy on most occasions. However, avoid the temptation to waffle. If you don't know the answer to a question, say so.

Asking Questions

This is your chance to impress therefore prepare in advance. Also, use this time to clear up any areas of concern you have.

DO NOT ask about salary and benefits, these are usually discussed at 2nd interview.

At the end of the interview

If you are asked whether you are interested in the position answer yes, even if you have doubts.

Thank the interviewer for their time, again a smile and a firm handshake will help.

Last impressions are possibly more important than first as the way you leave may be the way you are remembered. Above all, be yourself.

Additional Advice

DO NOT criticise your current firm or appear unnecessarily confrontational.

Be yourself and you will appear comfortable.

Be prepared to be asked about you as an individual and not only in relation to your experience. This is an additional area to score PLUS points, You know yourself better than them so you can be ultra positive and highlight any strengths you feel you have not mentioned.

Any career move is traumatic and requires a large amount of thought. Everyone has their ideal position, location, size of firm etc. The important things to establish are your priorities and the factors that control certain decisions. Once you have clarified these, be as flexible as possible with all the others.

Similarly, by all means ask around to find out more about firms but be prepared to make your own mind up, do not turn down opportunities on hearsay, find out for yourself.

Lastly consider all opportunities, get more information, weigh up all the pros and cons and think of the long term.

Standard Questions

Why do you wish to move from your present company? or Why were you made Redundant/Left/Dismissed from last company?
Where does your main experience lie?
What were the main responsibilities in your last/current job?
What do you do particularly well?
What are your main objectives?
Are there any types of organisations/people you find difficulty in working with?
What are your strengths?
What are your weaknesses?
What type of company would you like to work for?
What have been your main achievements to date?
Give me 3 selling points on your skills/experience.