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Interview Advice
Timing
Always allow sufficient time to get to your interview (aim to arrive 5 minutes early) – be aware of issues such as Car Parking and Traffic (make sure you have a contact number in case of emergency – being prepared is important) – The last thing you need is to dash in, in the nick of time, flustered and on edge – you won’t be calm and collected.
Preparation
Collect as much information on the position and the company as is possible (read Job Description & Person Specification – if available). Look up the company on the Internet so that you have some idea of what they do, their size, history etc. Make notes on relevant experience(s) that you have in respect of the role in question. Formalise any questions that you may have in respect of the position, the salary, hours, benefits, training etc. Know who you are being interviewed by, who they are, what they do (structure charts are quite useful – if available) – if you are not good with names – write them down.
Appearance
For most office positions the recruiting company would expect a smart standard of dress, if in doubt, ASK what is acceptable – including visible body piercing.
Recruiters are aware that many candidates are surviving on a limited budget, you don’t have to be dressed by Calvin Klein, but you do need to look clean and tidy (hair washed and clean shaven – where appropriate) – baseball caps are a fashion accessory but don’t look great at an interview! Clean shoes are something frequently overlooked, and if it’s hosing down outside, make a joke about it!
Remember that EVERY interview is important – if you can’t make the effort for it, then maybe you shouldn’t be attending or maybe they will think you can’t be bothered.
Body Language
When being interviewed always make eye contact, and if more than one person is interviewing you make sure you look at and respond directly to the person talking.
Interviews can be stressful but try and adopt a relaxed but positive demeanour – arms crossed, looking at shoes or any other nervous habits (covering your mouth with your hand or pulling at your ear) won’t show you in the best light.
Talk confidently and avoid waffle – if you are thrown by a question or need a minute to think – say so – looking considered is better than putting your foot in it
♦ Remember it is a two way process ♦
♦ The Company interviews you and you can interview the Company ♦
