|
| You are here: Home > > Preparing for interview |
|
Preparing for interview |
Research the company
You have probably done your research on the company at the time of applying for the job. If not:
- Review the website and related websites to get information on what they do.
- Talk to someone working there to get a sense of the culture.
The company researching you
Are you on any social network sites like Facebook, Bebo etc.?
- If you are, would you be happy for prospective employer to look at them?
- If the answer is no, then start editing.
Review your Job Application / CV
- Read over the copy of your completed application form, CV, covering letter and advertisement.
- Look at the criteria for the job and identify where and how your skills and competencies have been applied or could be applied.
- Have specific examples ready from your experience under each of the job criteria.
- Prepare for the obvious questions.
- Tell me about yourself? (Don’t tell your life history – just a few key areas relevant to the job that are likely to interest the employer)
- Why do you think you are suitable for the job?
- What can you offer them?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Why are you thinking of leaving your current position?
- Prepare in advance any questions YOU want to ask. Never mention salary yourself. Salary should only be negotiated after you have received a job offer.
- Remember that the interviewer wants to know if you can do the job, will do the job and will fit in.
The better you are prepared for the interview, the greater your chances of success.
On the day
- Know exactly where the company is and how long it takes to get there. Try to arrive at least 10 minutes early.
- Make sure you dress appropriately and try to look like you belong in that position.
- It is essential to be well groomed so personal hygiene is important. Avoid using strong perfume or aftershave.
- Keep jewellery to a minimum.
- Take a copy of your CV, application form and cover letter with you.
The Interview
Having researched the company before you attended for the interview will benefit you in many ways.
- You will be able to answer questions on the company and your potential role in it. This in turn will improve your presentation and ensure you sound confident, organised and motivated.
- The company will be impressed by the knowledge you display and effort you have put into your interview preparation. If you can show them that you have worked hard for the interview, they will believe you will work hard for the company if they offer you the job.
Body language plays a major part in any interview so this preparation will help your confidence and help you make a good first impression.
- 55% of communication is by non-verbal signals, e.g. facial expression, gestures, movement, eye contact and smile.
- 38% in how you sound – tone of voice
- Only 7% is the words you use.
So:
- Smile and be alert.
- Make sure your handshake is not limp, but not a bone crusher either.
- Present yourself well – be natural, honest, as relaxed as you can be and try not to fidget.
The Interview Q & A
- You may meet more than one interviewer. Give your full attention and establish eye contact with the interviewer asking the questions but include the rest of the panel.
- Try to remember names, especially that of the chairperson and use it if a natural opportunity occurs.
- Be prepared to answer questions on your CV or Application.
- Listen carefully to the questions asked. Do not interrupt.
- Answer all questions as honestly and fully as possible, but don’t ramble on.
- Assert yourself as appropriate – make sure you state your key points.
- Should you not fully understand a question, ask for clarification rather than give a wrong answer.
- Sell yourself and your achievements. Don’t be sidetracked, remember you are there to gain employment.
- Don’t be afraid to show enthusiasm, this is vital. You must look and sound interested in the job. It will weigh in your favour.
- Weaknesses – take responsibility and show how you have learned from them.
- Never knock a past employer. It is not a good idea to say you had a personality clash. If necessary say you had a disagreement over policy.
- Aim to speak for 60% of the interview.
The interview will probably end by the interviewer asking if you have any questions.
- Ask the questions you have prepared in advance. If they have already been answered, tell them so. Don’t ask them for the sake of asking or they will think you were not listening.
- If you are offered the job on the spot, do not rush your decision. Should you need additional information or time, ask for it.
Thank the chairperson by name for the interview and include the others in a general “Thank you”. Don’t forget to smile.
Thank the receptionist on the way out. Remember other staff are often asked their opinion of applicants.
Good luck!
If you would like help on Interview Skills, please contact your nearest LES office.
|
|
|
|
|
