Interview Tips
THE INTERVIEW
There is nothing frightening about being interviewed; the person interviewing may or may not be skilled. In any event they should have a very good brief on the skills required for the position you have been invited along to discuss. Co-operate with the interviewer, remember they rely on you for information, and judge you largely on what you say. Remember to find out about everything you want to know such as duties, salary and salary reviews, holidays, training and promotion prospects, fringe benefits, pensions, social clubs, bonuses, hours of work and overtime, working conditions, where you would fit into the hierarchy, whom you would be working for etc.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
You will make an impression as you walk through the door. Your clothes and appearance should reflect the right image. Dress accordingly.
MARKET RESEARCH
Find out as much as possible about the company beforehand. Obtain company brochures or visit the reference section of your local library or scan the internet to find out facts and figures so that you can ask pertinent questions. Make sure you know the location of the company and how you are going to get there.
BE PUNCTUAL AND PREPARED
It is important to arrive on time for your interview. Take with you any documents, references, or examples of your work that you feel will be relevant to the interview.
BE POSITIVE
Negative thoughts discussed will leave negative thoughts in the interviewer’s mind. Never criticise a previous employer.
BE ATTENTIVE
Be a positive listener. Be aware of body language. Let the interviewer control the interview. Respond to, rather than try to run, the interview.
CONFIDENCE
Spend time beforehand thinking through the type of questions you are likely to be asked and work out your responses. Know why you would be good for the position. Be enthusiastic.
DISCUSSION
Think through your answers carefully. Speak clearly. Concise answers that give sufficient information are much more effective than rambling answers.
AMBITION AND ACHIEVEMENT
The interviewer wants to see someone who can show commitment to a job and accomplish given tasks. State your achievements. Describe examples, successes and how things going wrong were corrected.
ESTABLISH YOUR ROLE
The employer may be looking for someone who will work well with other members of staff and be part of a team or for someone who can work independently using their own initiative. Find out what the key requirements are and work with them.
SALARY
Prospective job offers can be killed stone dead by applicants asking for a salary several thousands of pounds higher than their present salary. The best approach is to state the salary and benefits you are presently earning and that you wish to increase this. Remember, many companies now offer six monthly reviews to new employees.
TOWARDS THE END OF YOUR INTERVIEW
Ask when a decision will be made. If you found hearing more about the job and the company interesting and would like to be considered further, say so. Thank the interviewer for their time and reiterate your interest in the position.
