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.