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Your Guide to a Successful Interview
Having secured an interview with a prospective employer, you now need to do some preparation. The more you prepare the better your chances are of getting the job.
Here are some useful tips on how to have a successful interview:
Before the Interview:
- Find out as much about the company as you can by checking their web site if they've got one or phoning for some information
- Make sure you know exactly where the interview will take place and how to get there
- Give yourself plenty of time to get there. If you are going to be late, make sure you call to let them know
- Make sure you understand the duties and skills required of the job you're applying for
- Refamiliarise yourself with what's on your CV or Application Form
- Be prepared to describe how your skills and experience relate to the post you are being interviewed for
- Think about questions you may be asked and how you would answer them - see examples of Frequently Asked Questions listed below
- Dress appropriately for the job you are applying for and ensure that your clothes, shoes and hair are clean and tidy. Keep jewellery and perfume/aftershave to a minimum. Remember that first impressions are important.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prior to the interview you should think about questions you might be asked and how you will answer them.
Some examples of typical interview questions are listed below:
- Tell me about yourself
- What do you consider to be your strengths/weaknesses?
- What interests you about this position?
- Why did you apply for this job?
- What skills/qualities/experience can you bring to this post?
- What do you like most/least about your current/previous job?
- Can you describe a challenging situation which you've encountered and how you overcome it?
- What are/were your main responsibilities in your current/previous post?
- Do you have any questions you'd like to ask?
During the Interview
- When you are greeting your interviewer(s) remember to smile and give them a firm handshake.
- Don't be afraid to ask for a question to be repeated if you don't fully understand it
- Speak clearly
- Don't criticise previous employers
- Be prepared to ask the interviewer(s) some questions. However, if all your questions have been covered during the interview don't be afraid to say so
- At the end of the interview, thank your interviewer(s) for their time, smile and give them a firm handshake