Interview Tips

• Consider the most likely questions that you are going to be asked before you even get to the interview
• Research the company and job role.
• Consider your appearances – make sure you look smart! Dress to impress.
• Focus – Listen to what the interviewer is saying.
• Smile – look like you want to be there.
• Ask something – make sure that you have a couple of questions to ask the interviewer.
• Make notes – making notes makes you look interested in the role.
• End positively – thank the interviewer for their time.

What questions commonly come up?

• Tell me about yourself?
• Why do you want this job?
• What are your strengths?
• What are your weaknesses?
• Can you give an example of when you had to cope with a difficult situation?
• What has been your greatest achievement?
• What are your goals?
• Why should I hire you?
• Do you have any questions?

On the day essentials

• Have an early night/quiet night if possible.
• Have the travel route you are going to take planned.
• Make sure you have what you want to wear ready.
• Have a decent breakfast so you feel energised for your interview, and so you don’t get “rumbly-tummy” syndrome.

Feeling the fear

Most candidates do get nervous before an interview, this is completely normal.

• Try to channel the nervousness into positive energies.
• Remember the interviewer(s) may also be nervous.
• No one will mark you down in an interview for being nervous – some people say it shows you care!
• Normally you will actually make a worse impression by looking complacent or superior.

Focus on your body language

• The interview starts the minute you walk through the door, sometimes they can even see you in the car park!
• Smile, this helps create a positive atmosphere.
• Make sure you have eye contact with the interviewer(s) – this helps to show confidence and interest.
• The occasional head nodding shows interest, as well as good posture while sitting down.
• Don’t slouch or cross your arms.