Interview Tips

Remember you can never be too prepared…

Thorough company research is paramount, this shows the employer you have taken an interest in the business and this is not just ‘a’ job. Candidates who fail to prepare usually end up being unsuccessful for the position.

Use a notepad to write your research in and take along with you to the interview, people think this is a no-no but everyone’s mind can go blank at any time and you/the interviewer do not want awkward silences.

Example’s of what to research

  • How long has the company been established?
  • What do they do?
  • How many staff do they employ?
  • How many sites do they have?
  • Who are the customers and competitors?

You will also need to make a few notes about yourself

  • Strengths and Weakness
  • Skills and Attributes
  • Work Experience
  • Transferable Skills
  • Career Goals

Job Description

You will have already been given a job description, use this document to your full advantage, tailor your answers to the skills and experience required. Also, write down a few scenarios; when have you gone over and above for a colleague or customer, or assisted and resolved a major problem.

Find out who your interviewer is

Use media platforms such as LinkedIn to try gain information about the person(s) who you will be meeting, you never know there may be a link you can use to start up a conversation.

Make sure you know exactly where you are going

Whether you are travelling by car or on public transport check your journey time, even try and do a dummy run the day before the last thing you want is to be running late and feeling flustered or stressed.

Documents to take with you

  • CV – (See our guide on How to Write a CV)
  • Qualifications/certificates
  • Examples of work

Last but not least

  • Have your interview outfit ready the day before
  • Arrive 10 minutes early
  • Try not to smoke beforehand and do not chew gum

 
Good Luck!