Interview Tips

It can be quite nerve wracking going on an interview. Often people can be unsuccessful in interviews because they are nervous or lack self-confidence. We have listed below a few simple guidelines that can hopefully help you in your interview

Before the day

Find out exactly where you have to go for the interview, make sure you have plenty of time to get there and plan your journey! Lateness always gives a bad impression.

Find out as much as possible about the company and the position. Prepare a list of potential questions (we have included a guide to typical questions later in this document).

Find out what sort of interview you will have - will it be just a friendly chat; will you have to do a test?

On the day

Give yourself plenty of time to get ready.

Make sure you have all the things you need; exam certificates, National Record of Achievement, bus or taxi fare, a small street map if you are unfamiliar with the company location.

Go to the reception desk first, if there is one.

Always attend an interview in smart clothing; preferably wear a suit or a dress of conservative colour. Do not wear too much jewelry.

Switch off your mobile phone before entering the company building!

At the interview

Always be extremely courteous when announcing yourself in the reception area and when you are introduced to the person you are going to see.

Smile as you go in and say good morning/afternoon, using the person's name if possible. Shake his/her hand firmly and wait to be offered a seat.

Always be interested in what the interviewer has to say and do not let your eyes wander during the interview.

Do not smoke or chew gum/sweets during an interview and avoid smoking or drinking alcohol before your interview, fresh breath and clothing is essential!

Answer all questions in a fluent and confident (but not over-confident) manner, and do not wander too far from what the interviewer wants to know.

Never interrupt or talk over the interviewer, and keep good eye-to-eye contact.

Never be over familiar with the interviewer.

Never make derogatory or nasty comments about your previous employers.

If you feel nervous during your interview let the interviewer know, under similar circumstances they would probably be just the same!

Tell the truth - just be yourself!

Thank the interviewer and smile when you leave.

Typical questions you may be asked:

Tell me about yourself.
What is it you want to do?
Why do you want to work in this field?
What do you know about our Company?
What is more important to you, the salary or the job?
What achievement has given you the most satisfaction? and why?
What contributions could you make to this job?
How have you handled a major crisis or problem?
What would you say are your main downfalls?
What would you say are your main attributes?
What do you like to do in your spare time?
What are your salary expectations?
How did you like your last job and why did you leave?
What is your ideal position and career path?
How do you work with others as part of a team?
Have you got any questions you would like to ask? (Always have some questions in mind to ask)

Questions to ask the Interviewer:

What are the opportunities in this job?
To whom would I report?
Who are the key people I would work with?
How long has the position been open for?
Why is the position open?
How long has the company been established?
What training if any is available?
Is there a specific dress code for the position?

Interview mistakes:

Poor personal appearance, hygiene or inappropriate attire.
Know it all, arrogant or rude attitude.
Asking no questions about the job or the company.
Lack of interest, maturity or courtesy.
Poor language and inability to express yourself clearly.
Mention of salary, holidays and benefits too soon.
Lateness for interview.
Poor eye contact, lack of confidence.
Dishonesty
Lack of professionalism.
Leaving your mobile phone switched on during the interview (it may ring - a definite black mark!).

After the interview

Now you must wait. If an employer is interested in you they will contact you for a second interview or make a job offer. Don't be disheartened if you don't hear anything for a few days, most employers will wish to digest the impression you made and will often be considering other interviewed applicants.

If you do not hear from the employer after one week, call the person with whom you interviewed to get an update of their interest in you. Do not come across aggressively, this will only damage the relationship you have already established.

Finally - Good Luck and give it your best shot!