Interview Tips
Advice on how to handle interview pressure
With competition for jobs fiercer than ever, it’s never been more important to be well prepared for the interview process to ensure that you make a good first impression. Below are ten helpful tips to help you successfully prepare for your interview:
1. Plan Ahead
Although it sounds obvious make sure that you know the correct date, time and location of your interview. It is also important to remember the name of the person who you are due to meet and your travelling arrangements as this will help you avoid any extra stress on the day of the interview.
2. Be Prepared
Make sure that you have thoroughly researched the company and the industry they are in before attending the interview. A good place to start is the company’s website, and it may be worth looking for the latest news stories about the firm as well. Ensure that your consultant has prepared you for the interview by giving you the job details, who you are meeting and what they are looking for, and any background information about the company. Finally, ensure you have the information to fully understand the range of skills and experience you are likely to be assessed on in the interview. This will involve preparing specific answers relating to previous experiences and achievements, so it is well worth preparing these in advance.
3. Make a good impression
First impressions are vital; psychologists say that you are evaluated within the first 3 seconds of contact so it is essential that you look smart and professional, give a firm handshake, maintain eye contact and smile when meeting a potential employer for the first time.
4. Listen to the question and answer clearly and concisely
Listening is an important skill in business and never more so than in an interview. It’s important to remember an interview is essentially a conversation, so make sure you listen to what the interviewer is saying and respond when invited to. Try to be economical with your words and keep answers between 30 seconds and 2 minutes ideally.
5. Make sure you can answer any questions about your CV
There is little point in having an impressive-looking CV if you can’t answer questions about it. Make sure you know every part of your CV and can answer questions about your employment history with confidence and conviction. Also, make sure that you can explain any time gaps in your CV.
6. Talk about specific achievements
Interviewers like to know how you felt about a particular success, so prepare examples of things you’ve done that you are particularly proud of, how you’ve solved problems and what you’ve learnt from difficult situations.
7. Prepare answers to possible questions
Make sure you are clear about why you would be ideal for this job and the qualities you can bring to the company and role. Interviewers love questions such as ‘What are your strengths and weaknesses?’ Select weaknesses that can be remedied and turned into an advantage.
8. Be Honest
There is no point in lying about your achievements and skills; if you get caught out it can be embarrassing for you and the interviewer. If your skills don’t match the needs of the job, the job isn’t right for you. Also, remember that interviews are a two-way meeting so don’t be afraid to ask open questions throughout – this will confirm your interest and enthusiasm and help build a rapport with the interviewer.
9. Bring a copy of your CV & References
This shows that you are well prepared and organised.
10. Closing the interview
Before leaving it’s important to be remembered for the right reasons, so be positive and finish strongly by thanking the interviewer(s) for their time and by showing enthusiasm for the role and the company. Finally, follow up with a thank you letter/email to the interviewer(s) the next day as this may set you apart from the other candidates.