Interview Tips

Interview tips

1. Be on time!
Aim to be early - you can always find a nearby café or shop to wait

in. Remember, you never get a second chance to make a first

impression. If you are going to be late, then ALWAYS ring ahead and

let them know.

2. Be Prepared!
Look at the employers' website and learn something about the company

before you attend your interview. Discover some facts about the

industry they operate in and the type of services and products it

offers. Find out about any recent successes and bring this to the fore

when given an opportunity during the interview. People like to talk

about good news.

3. Write down and practice possible questions!
Writing them down and practicing them with someone will make it easier

to remember when you get to the interview. Use the third person when

talking about the job. Avoid sounding as though you assume the job is

yours.

It is perfectly acceptable to ask about the package and benefits on

offer. It can sometimes be helpful to ask how they differentiate

themselves from their competitors and looking specifically at the role

what they think the toughest and hardest part of the job is.

4. What are your weaknesses?
Don’t be a know it all! Try to find an area of your experience/skill

that is currently lacking and relate it to how this role may help to

develop your skills. An interviewer will appreciate your honesty.

5. You never get a second chance to make a first impression!
SMILE! Dress professionally in simple business attire. Yes it is true,

a firm handshake and maintaining eye contact (without glaring!) goes a

long way.

6. Be honest!
There really is no point lying about your background and/or skills.

It’s a foolish thing to do, if you get found out, you can be sure you

won't be around for long! Job interviews are about matching needs - if

there isn't a good match, chances are that the job won't work out.

7. Check your CV for possible gaps!
Make sure you know how you are going to explain time gaps on your CV.

8. Talk about specific achievements!
Interviewers like to know how you felt about a particular success.

Some will ask for specific examples of things you've done that you're

particularly proud of; how you solved problems; how you learned - and

improved - from difficult situations.

9. Don't talk too much!
Communication is a two-way thing so give them a chance.

11. Take a spare CV with you!
Your interviewer won't be expecting it so you will impress them. It

also helps them remember you after the interview.

12. Be enthusiastic and positive!
NEVER criticise previous employers. Focus on positive achievements and

views