How to prepare yourself for the interview
The Opportunity
You are being interviewed because the interviewer wants to employ someone who they feel is suitable for a position in the company.
Remember throughout the interaction which will take place during the interview, the interviewer will be inquiring about your strong and weak points, evaluating you on your qualifications, personal and technical skills and intellectual qualities. They will probably explore in detail to determine your attitude, capabilities, stability, motivation and maturity.
Use this opportunity to make a positive impression and to learn as much as possible about the company and the position.
Follow these simple tips in order to maximize your chances of succeeding at the interview.
- Find out as much as you can about the company and the position for which you are applying.
- Know the exact time and place for the interview, the interviewer's full name, the correct pronunciation and their title.
- Remind yourself about previous / present employment as well as your CV so you can communicate confidently.
- Calculate the journey time so that you arrive on time for your interview. Perhaps practice the journey to familiarize yourself with the route.
- You may like to take a notepad with you to have your questions in front of you and also to note information that the interviewer is giving you.
- Prepare what you are going to wear the day before and dress smartly.
- Make sure you are well presented
- Ensure you get a sufficient amount of sleep the night before
- Arrive on time, or a few minutes early
Prepare the questions you would like to ask during the interview e.g.
- What is important to the company / position?
- A detailed description of the position / breakdown of duties / a typical day in the job.
- Anticipated induction and training program?
- Company growth plans?
- Opportunities for career progression? (Try not to appear aggressively ambitions).
During The Interview
- If presented with an application form, fill out neatly and clearly.
- Mobile phone must be switched off.
- Pay respect to the interviewer by bringing the hands together to the face or smile and shake hands firmly with confidence if the interviewer is a foreigner
- If the interviewer is a foreigner, greet he/she by his/her surname
- If you are nervous, remember that the interviewer is a two way process, while you are trying to impress the interviewer, the company should also be the type of organization you would like to join.
- Wait until you are offered a chair before you sit down. Sit up straight and well back in the chair. Do not fidget.
- Show that you are enthusiastic/ interested all the time.
- Eye contact is an essential part of the communication between you and the interviewer.
- Speak clearly and formally. Avoid slang. Highlight relevant skills developed through your work experience during the interview.
- Be honest. Answer questions truthfully and keep to the point.
Questions regarding salary, holidays, bonuses etc, should only be discussed, if appropriate, in the latter part of the interview process. - Be optimistic. Speak positively
If you feel that the interview is not going well and that you have been rejected, don't let your discouragement show. Sometimes an employer who is genuinely interested in your possibilities may seem to discourage you in order to test your reaction.
At The End of The Interview
Confirm your interest in the position (if it is the case!). Ask what the next step will be. If you are offered the position, only accept it if you are totally sure. If not be courteous and tactful in asking for time think it over. Do not be discouraged if a definite offer is not made or a specific salary is not discussed.
The interviewer may want to communicate with her / his office first or interview more applicants before reaching a decision.
Thank the interviewer for his / her time and consideration.
As a general overview, remember that the three main questions on the interviewer’s maid are:
- Why are you interested in the job and company?
- What can you offer this company?
- Can you do the job?
"Only you can convince the interviewer that you are the right person!"
------------------------------ GOOD LUCK --------------------------------
*Why not photocopy this handy guide for friends, relatives or colleagues who may be interested? Or ask them to contact our consultants who will be pleased to help
