Preparing for a job interview
Job interviews can be a daunting process for most people. Everyone gets nervous and the more information and knowledge you have before your interview, the more confident you will feel. It is like an exam - make sure you research and practice. A lack of preparation will be obvious to your interviewer and maybe detrimental to your success.
It is important that you:
- Find out as much as possible about the organisation. Eg: Size, structure, location, products & services, customers, competitors, future plans etc. Information can be sourced from websites, annual reports, publications, articles in the press, advertising material and employees who work for the organisation.
- Think about how you will present yourself for the interview, as presentation is important and often makes a lasting impression. Appropriate dress will help you to sell yourself effectively and generally create a good impression. Wear smart casual dress or corporate attire depending on the position you are being interviewed for. Avoid wearing caps, sunglasses etc.
- At the time of making an appointment for an interview find out the exact location at which the interview will be conducted and the name and title of the interviewer. If you are not familiar with location, make sure that you arrive in early so that you can find the interviewer's office.
- Prepare some questions you may have about the role or the prospective employer.
During the interview
Body language - try to relax, and have an open body manner. This will make you feel more settled and project a positive image.
Ensure you stay on track with your answers. If you do not understand a question, don't be afraid to ask the interviewer to repeat the question. Take a moment to consider your response and offer the most relevant answer ensuring you keep to the original question. Answer the question and don't "waffle".
Prepare yourself to answer questions that cover:
- All aspects of your previous work history and previous duties.
- The reasons for leaving previous jobs.
- What you have enjoyed and disliked about previous positions.
- Ambitions, both short and long term.
- How you spend your spare time - your hobbies and interests.
- Why you chose this particular job/occupation and why you are suited to it.
- Why you want to work for this company.
- Referees.
- Your educational background.
- Whether you worked alone or as a member of a team.
- Your knowledge of the company; its products etc.
- Your thoughts on working overtime, long hours.
At the end of the interview
You may be asked by the interviewer if you have any questions. This is the time to ask the questions you have prepared. Be confident to ask what the next steps are and the timeframes.
Important things to do:
- Arrive on time. SMILE
- Offer a firm handshake.
- Address the person by name and look interested.
- Wait until you are offered a seat then sit upright and face the interviewer.
- Project confidence, relax and smile.
- Listen carefully to what the interviewer says. Do not interrupt.
- Maintain direct eye contact and do not spend your time gazing around the room.
- Find out the position details so that you can relate your background successes specifically to the position.
- Elaborate on answers to questions. Remember you need to sell but not oversell yourself.
- Tell the truth and be totally frank - if you have no experience in a particular area say so, but add that you are a quick learner - give an example.
- Ask for clarification if you have difficulty understanding a point or a question.
- Show continued interest and enthusiasm.
- Ask questions about the organisation and the position.
- Conduct yourself in a manner which indicates that you are keen to secure that position.
- Make sure you ask the interviewer to indicate the likely success of your application. Ask if there is going to be a second interview and the likely time frame.
- Ensure that you understand the next step in the selection process before leaving the interview.
- Thank the interviewer for his/her time and the opportunity provided to discuss your credentials.
- End the interview with a firm handshake and a SMILE.
- Send the interviewer a thank you note or an e-mail after the interview again stating your interest
Important things not to do:
- Do not be long winded and don't elaborate more than necessary.
- Do not discuss your political or religious views.
- Do not criticise or make bad remarks about previous employers.
- Do not ask questions about salary and conditions until invited to discuss this area, usually later in the interview.
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