Adequate preparation is essential if you want to give yourself the best possible chance in an interview. Lack of preparation indicates lack of initiative and enthusiasm; not the qualities that your interviewer is looking for. Proper preparation will allow you to sell yourself better, outline your strengths and highlight your ability to add value to the company.

Research

Company websites are a good source of information and can provide you with information on products and services, company news and corporate details.
Other sources of information are the company’s own literature, trade journals, annual reports, media packs, marketing information, national press and business press. Ask your Searchforce consultant for any further information about the company and its culture.

Dress code

Dress in smart business attire, clean and pressed. Do not be tempted to wear casual clothes, even if the company dress code is casual.

Preparation

Make sure you know the exact address of the company, how to get there, how long it will take and the parking situation. If you are running late call the company and notify them of the situation. You should also know the names, correct pronunciation and titles of the interviewers and if possible how long they have been with the company and where they come from. Have a few intelligent questions ready for the interviewer, which will show your interest in the company and will impress the interviewer. Many interview questions are similar, so think about the questions you may be asked and be prepared. This is also your opportunity to have your questions answered, however in the first round interview it is best not to bring up the subject of salary, unless your interviewer does. Some questions you may ask could include:

• Ability for career progression
• Training
• Why has the position become available
• Details about the position
• The company culture
• Plans for future development
• What is the next step

Interview Techniques

• Arrive early
• Fill out forms accurately and neatly
• Shake hands firmly and look the interviewer in the eye
• Smile, address the interviewer by name. Make sure you know the correct pronunciation
• Wait to be invited to sit down. Don’t slouch
• Be attentive and a good listener
• Take time to think about the questions before you respond
• Be confident and relaxed and watch your body language
• You’ve done the research so ask some intelligent questions that show you are genuinely interested in the position
• Try to find out as much information about the position and the responsibilities early in the interview so that your can tailor your responses to suit, and highlight your relevant experience and skills
• Allow your personality to shine, listen well and be attentive
• Keep your answers concise; don’t be tempted to ramble on
• Be sure of your career goals
• Even if you are unsure about your interest in the position, give it your best shot. Don’t close the door on an opportunity. It may turn out to be just the job you want. It is better to have choices.
• Always tell the truth
• Don’t smoke prior to an interview as the odour lingers.
• Explain your answers briefly rather than just answering with a yes or no.
• Don’t make negative comments about your current or any former employers
• Don’t enquire about salary or benefits in your first interview. Be sure you are clear about your salary expectations, and that they are realistic
• End on a positive note, affirming your interest in the position and how you could add value to the company

Closing the Interview

Thank the interviewer for his or her time. Enquire as to the next stage. If you are offered the position and you would like some time to think about it, give the interviewer a date by which you will make a decision. If you felt the interview may not have gone well, don’t be discouraged. The interviewer may be testing your reaction.
 

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