Interview Tips

• Almost all jobs involve a face-to-face interview, so do your homework about your potential new employer beforehand! Try to anticipate likely questions and look at the company’s website to find out all you can about them. Prepare to ask your interviewer’s questions too; it shows you’re intelligent, interested and on the ball!
• First impressions are crucially important, especially your appearance, even if the employer has a relaxed dress code. So make sure you’re smartly dressed; ideally wearing a suit with no excessive jewelry or makeup, clean shaven and clean shoes. This will show how much importance you place on the company and the position on offer.
• Arrive 10 minutes early so you can relax, check your appearance and read any notes you may have. Check through corporate literature on display, and even chat to the receptionist if the opportunity arises, both can be vital sources of company information.
• Make sure you know the interviewer’s name, make good eye contact and deliver a firm handshake. This helps to make you feel confident and gives them the impression that you’re a strong, resourceful character.
• Be prepared to give a verbal account of your background (they'll be testing your communication skills). Don't hurry, think clearly and take all the time you need to deliver your information concisely, smoothly and logically. Place particular emphasis on your recent experience and skills relevant to the job on offer. Always be positive and wherever possible give positive responses to questions asked, beyond a simple “yes” or “no”. Remember, you cannot prepare for all the questions you will be asked, but always try to 1) Answer the question and; 2) Expand or give an example (to back up your experience and knowledge).
• Listen carefully and if you don’t understand a question, ask the interviewer to repeat or clarify it. If you don't know an answer, say so and don't be afraid to make it a point of discussion. For example, ask questions about the subject or describe how you would resource and find out this information in a real life situation.
• Before the interview comes to a close, make sure that you have mentioned all of your relevant experience. The interviewer may not have covered everything in their questioning, so if you get the opportunity summarise your understanding of what’s needed for the role.
• Reinforce your interest in the role prior to leaving the interview. Ask the interviewer about what happens next, when a decision will be made and ALWAYS thank them for seeing you.