Interview Tips and Advice
The following points are just a guide. Interviews are varied and do not always follow a set pattern so they cannot therefore be easily categorised. However, our experience of successful interviews, along with feedback from our clients, indicates that your chances of success will be enhanced if you bear in mind the following points:
Review your CV and Applications
As well as reviewing the content of your CV, ensure that you have gone over any application forms you were required to complete prior to the interview. It is important to know the key skills required for the role you are interviewing for and it’s a good idea to use your experience in preparing examples of how your experience matches those skills. We have also prepared some advice on Interview questions to help you fully prepare.
Company Background
Prepare yourself with as much information about the company and role as possible. Visit the company's website as it should provide good information about the products/services the company offers. Try to gain an understanding of the structure of the company and the market the company is in.
Preparation, Planning and Punctuality
Good preparation is the key to a successful interview beginning with knowing the names and job titles of the people who will be interviewing you. Plan your route before the interview to make sure you give a good impression by being punctual. Have directions and maps to your interview location as well as information on parking or the nearest railway station. If, for unforeseen circumstances you are going to be late, contact the company to inform them of your expected arrival time and let us know that you have done this. On arrival, apologise immediately and explain your reasons. Arriving in good time will not only ensure that you give a good impression, but it means you will have time to collect your thoughts before the interview begins.
Dress
Dress smart, be aware of the company culture and ensure you dress to impress. Decide what you are going to wear the night before to avoid making the wrong choices.
On Arrival
When meeting the interviewer(s) for the first time, greet them with a smile, a strong handshake and be polite. Maintain good eye contact levels at all times, especially with the interviewer to whom you are responding to. Try to mimic the style of the interviewer i.e. if they are formal - be formal, if they are informal - be informal. Look and act alert and interested.
Feedback
Finally, ask what the follow up procedure is, and when you could expect to hear from them. It Is also important to tell them if you are interested in the position. Thank them for their time.
Have a look at our interview checklist to ensure you are fully prepared
Interview Check List
Have you…
- Researched the Company
- Sorted out what to wear
- Travel Arrangements
- Prepared some broad questions to ask the interviewer (try to avoid the salary question unless prompted)
- Rehearsed interview scenarios (many of your peers will be in the same position so take advantage of this)
- Confirmed Date/Time/Location of Interview
- Printed a copy of your CV and any relevant project work
- Got a decent notebook and pen in case you would like to make notes