Candidate Interview Tips
Research
Know exactly what role you are being interviewed is cruitial. Research both the role and the company you have the interview with to gain a firm understanding of what they do, how they do it, who their clients are and any values the company stands for. Ask your consultant to email you a job specification and look up the company via the internet, newspapers or magazines.
Preparation
Fail to plan, plan to fail. Think ahead and try to pre-empt what type of questions you may be asked by the interviewer. Go over your specialist skills and areas of expertise and look at what your skills and weaknesses are.
Organisation
Making sure you know the day, time and location for your interview will all help in reducing any stress you may have. Also know who to ask for when you get there.
Appearance
Look smart – There is only one chance to make a first impression and they count for a lot!
Punctuality
Leave plenty of journey time particularly when travelling in the rush hour and don’t be late. Lateness does not reflect well on candidates.
Smile and Relax
Even though your stomach might be in a knot and your palms sweating just try to relax and enjoy the experience. A smile can make all the difference and can help turn a person from looking nervous to looking very confident and friendly. Remember that an interview is also a chance for you to assess the company and the role you are applying for.
Listen
Listen to what is said during the interview and always try to answer accordingly.
Breathe
If you feel yourself getting nervous take some deep breaths. Ask for questions to be repeated if you need a little time in formulating your answers and don’t forget that your interviewer is only human.
Questions
It is always a good idea to have some relevent questions prepared to ask on the day. Focus on the company, the role and any duties this involves.
Feedback
When the interview finishes, give your consultant a call to talk about how it went and to find out if there is any feedback.