Interview Top Tips

Is the job really for you?

Go through the job description and ensure that it fits your aspirations, how confident are you about taking on the role, question why you want the job in the first place, be absolutely sure you are convinced by your views, if you are not then the employer will sense this, and clearly if you are not sure then it is not for you, You MUST be sure.

What do you know about the company?

This is the one area that can let you down and employers write people off instantly if you are not knowledgeable about the company and its functions, do the research on the company, check their websites, brochures and get your findings down on paper and put it together in a presentation format, so you show you have prepared, and done your research.

What's the role and what's the company like?

Why is there a vacancy in the first place, what are the progression prospects, what's the structure of the company, is there scope for movement into other areas to progress. What is the company culture like, what practices do they operate as a business and for staff, is this a company you aspire to work for. What's the line manager like, do you feel you would hit it off with one another

Presentation

This is key, as it is your image and first impression, so make sure you understand the culture of the company, what is the dress code, if it's casual smart then this dress code is fine to wear, it matches the company culture, likewise if it is business suits then it's a suit. Make sure you are immaculate whatever the code, shoes clean, shirt and jacket clean, sounds silly and simple but you would be surprised, by what people feel is okay to wear, it's all in the detail, and if you look like you have not made sure you are presentable then it will probably reflect in what the employer will think of your work.

Rehearse

Practice makes perfect as the saying goes, but it also builds confidence, so get your answers planned and practice them to yourself and do a dummy run with family or friends to build confidence.

Ask the Interviewer Questions

1. Why are they recruiting for this role?

2. What will be some of the initial challenges? Or as my direct report in this position, what are the three top priorities you would first like to see accomplished?

3. What do they enjoy about working for the company? What keeps them here?

4. What will be the induction/training provided?

5. How will my performance be measured? How Often?

6. What do you think is the greatest opportunity facing the organization in the near future and the biggest threat?

7. What are the traits and skills of people who are the most successful within the organization?

8. How is this department perceived within the organization?

9. What do you see in me? What are my strongest assets and possible weaknesses? Do you have any concerns that I need to clear up in order to be the top candidate?

10. What will be the process moving forward, when can I expect to hear from you?

Think positive, act positive

Start to think of yourself in the role, the decisions you would make, what it will be like to be in the position, imagine yourself being successful in the role - this is called brain conditioning and is important for building confidence and your attitude when in the interview

More top tips to come look out for our blogs in the coming weeks, any feedback or comments welcome.