Preparation
Review your CV - make sure you familiarise yourself with your CV, your application letter and your application prior to the interview. Employers often use this as a basis for questioning, so make sure you are clear on your skills, job history and qualifications etc.
If you have any career gaps, longer than usual study periods or short stays in jobs be prepared to explain these in a positive manner as these are areas commonly probed at interview.
Do your homework - find out as much as you can about your prospective employer. Common resources are the internet and any literature the organisation has provided. Don’t be afraid to telephone them and ask more information about the job.
Review the job specification - this will provide you with the skills, experiences and the main responsibilities being sought for the role. Put yourself in the role of the interviewer and think about the types of questions you would ask a candidate armed with this information.
Better still set up a mock interview to practice your skills, ask a friend or family member to act as the interviewer. The more you are able to think about the types of questions you will be asked and how you would answer the less likely you are to get tongue-tied at the interview.
Prepare some questions – as well as thinking about the questions you will be asked think of questions to ask the interviewer. These should be relevant to the post you are applying for and be positive in nature e.g. what are the career prospects, what training is provided, are there opportunities to study etc. You want to show them you are a proactive individual who is keen.
Think about your appearance - ensure you have something smart to wear to the interview, first impressions count. As a general rule of thumb keep jewellery subtle and remove any visible piercing. If you have any tattoos ensure these remain covered during the interview.
Research the venue - make sure you know how to get there. Many companies will send you a map. If you are not sure make a dry run beforehand. It is important to make sure you arrive on time. As a rule of thumb allow half an hour
The interview
Your nerves – it is natural to have nerves on the big day and in fact a certain amount of nerves is positive as it means your body is ready to perform at its best.
Take confidence from the fact the interviewer is not trying to catch you out, their job is put you at ease to get the most out of you.
Your greeting - always smile and give a firm handshake. Do not sit until you are asked to be seated.
Your body language - Try to sit in an upright position and lean forward slightly this will show the interviewer you are confident and interested. Keep good eye contact throughout.
Your behaviors - During the interview concentrate, actively listen, respond positively and enthusiastically and remain polite and respectful throughout.
Your Voice – speak clearly and at a steady pace, you tend to speed up a little when nervous so bare this in mind.
Your answers – don’t rush your answer, make sure you have understood the question and give yourself time to think about what you want to say. Try to avoid just making statements, back it up with examples. If you cannot think of an answer then ask if you can move on and return to that question at the end.
If you cannot think of an example from your career experiences don’t be afraid to use an example from a hobby or pastime e.g. you may help run a club, organise social events regularly. Ensure they are relevant to the question being asked.
Your questions – as discussed in the preparation you should have some questions prepared. When you ask your questions make sure these haven’t already been covered during the interview.
Check what the process is next and when you are likely to hear something if this information is not provided.
Your departure – again look to give a firm hand shake, thank the interviewer for his or her time and for giving you the opportunity to learn more about their organisation.
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