An interview is a meeting for two-way
discussion and to exchange information. Preparation is essential as
the pathway to a successful interview.
Remember: The reason for the interview is that our client wants to recruit someone to fill a position in their organisation – not because they want to embarrass you. Throughout the interview our client will be evaluating your strong and weak points, qualifications, skills and the ability to perform in the position they have available.
Interview essentials
The following points should be remembered:
- Greet the interviewer with a smile and a firm handshake..
- Look the interviewer in the eye.
- Turn weaknesses into strengths. Discuss your weaknesses as though
you have recognised them and strive to overcome them e.g.
- I used to have weak time management but I recognised that, and
- I now prioritise my work first thing in the morning.
- Have a positive attitude. Always go into the interview with the intention of getting an offer. Remember to sell yourself, abilities and experience in the best possible manner. A common reason we hear for rejection is lack of enthusiasm and positivity.
Preparing for the interview
- Know the exact location and time of the interview
- Know the interviewers name or the person you should ask for when you arrive
- Find out some information about the company. This information is often available online, company web site or even Youtube. Prepare a list of questions you intend to ask, together with the answers to commonly asked questions.
- Feel free to make notes during the interview, shows you’re taking it seriously and you wont forget anything afterwards.
- Don’t be too negative or slate your current employer, this does not go down well.
Some questions you may wish to ask
- Why is this position currently available?
- What training is available?
- What technologies does the company use?
- Does the company have any growth plans?
- What projects are you currently working on?
- How large is the team I will be working with?
- How much employee or customer interaction will there be?
- Have some questions at the end, also ask about timescales when they expect to make a decision …and if you are interested in the job tell them!
Prepare your answer
- Why do you want to work for our company?
- What are you doing in your current position?
- Why are you looking to make a move?
- What do you want to achieve in life?
- Where do you want to be in 5 years time?
- What are your major weaknesses?
- What are your biggest strengths?
- Why should I give you the job?
- How do you work in team environment?
- If you get stuck answer a question with a question!
Important: Make sure you state the benefits you will bring. Show / demonstrate verbally examples past achievements and accomplishments.
Before you go:
- Check the map and directions.
- Get a copy of the job spec, and review the companies website.
- Re-read your CV again.
- Get a good nights sleep.
- Leave in plenty of time.
- Remember to have telephone numbers and names of interviewers on you in case of delay.
Upon arrival
- Who do you ask for?
- The interviewer may be nervous too! Have some stock
questions to relax both of you. You may have far to walk to the
interview room. Perhaps someone else will pick you up and take you to
the interviewer?
- Talk about their journey..? People like to talk – get them to do the work!
- Discuss the building, their products, successes, how long they have worked for the company etc.
- Will you be offered a drink? Don’t hesitate in telling them what you want.
- Have your papers to hand and your questions ready. Use a folder for your documentation.
During the interview
- Listen, Listen, Listen. You have two ears and one mouth.
- Some interviewers are better than others. Help them to get the best out of you
- Body language is key. Don’t slouch – and think about what you will do with your hands.
- Don’t interrupt. If you think of something important, make a note immediately and come back to it later.
- If you believe that you would be very good at this job, tell them exactly why.
People buy people
Sure, this is an interview – but if you genuinely get on with the interviewer and like them, the chances are they’ll like you too. They will be looking to see if you will get on with the existing team – and will you add value. People who are good communicators who interact well with others.