Interview Preparation

Preparing for the Interview

• Do your research. Find out as much as you can about the employer and the job, ask for some company literature or use their website. Find out what they do and what the job role involves.

• Dress to impress.  This doesn’t necessarily mean buying a new outfit but ensure that your clothes are appropriate and you are neat, clean and tidy. Even if you know the company has a casual dress code, dress smartly for the interview.

• Plan to arrive on time or a few minutes early. Ensure that you work out in advance where you are going and how you are going to get there. Late arrival for a job interview is never excusable.

• Re-read your CV or application form the night before.  The interviewer will ask questions on the information you have provided them – make sure you can remember what you have written.

• Think about what questions you may be asked and think about possible responses to these questions.

During the Interview

• Create the right impression.  From the moment you arrive at the organisation whether you are talking to the receptionist or the interviewer, smile, maintain regular eye contact and be polite.  A firm and friendly handshake accompanied by a smile goes a long way.

• Don’t worry if you are nervous, take a deep breath, relax and concentrate on answering the questions asked. Try to think of the interview as an opportunity to sell yourself rather than a test.

• Be aware during the interview of your tone and body language.  Relax but don’t slouch; Never swear.

• During the interview ensure that you where possible you don’t answer questions with a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer. Give examples to support your answer which demonstrate your skills and experience.

• Don’t be tempted to make up something or lie in an interview.  If an interviewer asks a question you don’t understand or feel that you can’t answer ask them to explain or elaborate.

• Always prepare a list of questions to ask at the end of the interview. This shows that you are interested in the role.

Follow Up

• At the end of the interview always thank the interviewer for their time and make sure that you know what the next stage of the process is.

• Follow up the interview with a letter or email to the interviewer thanking them for their time and expressing your interest in the role.  This will set you apart from other candidates.

• If you are informed that you have been unsuccessful then wherever possible ask for feedback.  Take this feedback on board and apply it to the next interview.