How to impress in interviews
No matter how much experience you have or how well qualified you are, interviews are always a daunting prospect. Follow our advice and you'll be sure to make a good impression:
- Do your research! Find out as much as you can about the company from
your consultant, request some company literature and do some research
on the internet if you can.
- Discuss the specifications of the job with your consultant prior to
the interview and make sure you can demonstrate experience in all of the
key criteria.
- Think about what your key strengths and weaknesses are - this is a common
interview question so it's a good idea to have answers prepared in advance.
- Make sure you know how to get to your destination and how long it will
take to get there. It's best to arrive a good ten minutes before your
interview is due to start.
- Practice giving a firm, confident handshake.
- Bring along samples of your work and employer references where appropriate
- if in doubt, just ask your consultant. These should be presented in
a suitable folder or portfolio.
- Dress to impress! If you're well turned out and smartly dressed, you'll
look and feel every inch the professional and will instantly feel more
confident.
- Give clear and succinct answers to the interviewer's questions and get
straight to the point.
- Ask plenty of questions about the job itself, the company culture and
the team you will be working with.
- Try to relax as much as possible and just be yourself.
- Find out what timescales they are working towards and establish what
the next steps will be if you're successful.
- Finally, contact your consultant after the interview and let them know
how it went.