Interview Tips

You have got past the first hurdle and secured an interview – excellent, well done! Now it’s time get down to some hard research. Going to an interview can be nerve racking and therefore being well prepared will give you that extra edge over your competitors – in the end this is a competition and you need to do everything you can to be the winner!

Research the company – business history, mission statement, financial accounts, company brochures and website. This will give you extra confidence when answering or asking questions during the interview and show that you have a keen interest in the company.

Journey – ensure you know how long it will take you to get to your interview and then add a little extra time for any delays that might occur. Also, if you arrive early this will give you time to relax and gather your thoughts.

Body language is very important! Remember first impressions are vital and, rightly or wrongly, most interviewers will make a decision in the first few minutes about your suitability for the company. Greet your interviewer with a firm handshake and a smile, speak clearly and confidently, maintain eye contact and do not fidget.  Your interest in the business and its function/s will be vital at this stage.

Don’t stress negative points about previous employers, this is extremely unprofessional and always adhere to confidentiality agreements from any previous employer.

Think about the questions you are being asked, even pause before to take time to think about your answer.

Always ensure you have relevant questions to ask about the role or the organisation, if you have prepared correctly you can pre-prepare questions that are appropriate to the role or the business.

Always leave on a positive note - before you leave the interview room thank the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you and to not hesitate to contact you if they require further information.