Candidates
Interview Tips
The interview is the most vital part of the job application process. It is an opportunity for you to find out more about your potential employer and it is also an opportunity for them to learn more about you. It is absolutely essential that you are well prepared for the interview and are able to present yourself and your experience in the best possible way. You need to demonstrate to the potential employer that you are the most suitable candidate for the job. Follow our hints and tips below to ensure you are thoroughly prepared for your next interview.
Before the Interview
- Take extra care with your appearance and dress in professional attire suitable to the culture of the company you will be meeting with. If you are unsure of the dress code required, speak with your consultant prior to the interview.
- Be sure to know the details - exact address and location of the company, the time of the interview, and full names and titles of all the interviewers. Make sure you leave yourself plenty of time to get to the interview. Arriving late is not a good first impression.
- Make sure you prepare beforehand - research the company's website and any brochures or material your consultant gave you. Talk to your consultant and learn about the culture and the team you will be working with. When you visit the website research the "About Us", "Careers" and "Our People" sections to name a few. You will also want to brush up on any latest news and events for the company.
- Be familiar with the details you supply in your resume. The interviewer will expect you to be able to expand on details supplied in your resume and discuss the responsibilities and achievements you have undertaken with previous employers.
- Do have some questions prepared for the interview - write them down and take the list with you. This demonstrates your preparedness, even if they answer all your questions during the interview, they will be impressed if you refer to your list to ensure you haven't missed anything.
During the Interview
- The interviewer will be looking at your total performance during the interview including your body language, communication skills, appearance, and ability to demonstrate your suitability for the role.
- Be punctual - arriving late or too early is equally unprofessional. If you are running late, call your consultant to let them know so they can inform the company on your behalf.
- When you greet the interviewer, shake hands firmly. Do greet them by their first name but be sure of the pronunciation. A pleasantry such as "lovely to meet you", or "thank you for taking the time to meet with me today", would be appropriate.
- Be polite and courteous throughout the interview. Do not sit down until you are offered a seat by the interviewer. Make sure you are sitting upright, but not uptight. Do show your interest and enthusiasm for the position.
- The interviewer will be looking for various things during the interview. As a general guide we recommend that you:
- Take a balanced and thoughtful approach with your answers.
- Express yourself clearly and positively.
- Be confident in your abilities ... but not too confident. Some humility also goes a long way.
- Be tactful, show maturity and politeness.
- Do try to relax and have a conversation during the interview but maintain a professional approach.
- Make sure your body language is positive - don't slouch, cross your arms or look away from the interviewer when responding to them.
- Do maintain eye contact throughout, but not fixedly when talking to the interviewer.
- Make sure you have a good overall knowledge about the company - you don't want to fail their first question which could be "tell us what you know about our company?"
- Every interview will be different. Some companies take a very formal approach and others may be very relaxed. However, it is important to be prepared with some answers and have some examples to some common interview questions.
- Interviewers will be looking for your ability to demonstrate your abilities in an articulate manner. It is very important that you listen to their questions carefully, giving them time to finish their question before you get excited and jump in. Don't take too long to respond to a question, but do consider it carefully before you formulate your response.
- Provide examples where possible to tell the interviewer how you may have demonstrated certain skills in the past.
- Keep your answers to the point - don't waffle and don't stray from the original question. Do answer each question and expand when providing examples. Don't hesitate to ask for clarification if you do not understand a question - asking them to rephrase the question just may help you in providing the right answer instead of guessing.
- Do be honest and open during the interview. Remember that the interviewer will ask for referees and will want to confirm the information you provide.
- Don't ever make derogatory remarks about your current or former employers. If you are unsure how to discuss your reasons for leaving a current or future employer, speak with your consultant.
- Don't ask about or discuss salary at the initial interview unless the interviewer asks you about your salary expectations first.
Closing the Interview
- Be sure to thank the interviewer(s) for their time and consideration of you and shake hands firmly upon leaving.
- If any aspect of the position or company has impressed you, mention it briefly and ask the interviewer what the next step will be.
- If the position is offered to you on the spot and you want it, accept it. However, if you need time to think or have other positions you may be considering, let them know your position and that you would like time to think but be tactful and courteous in asking for time. Be prepared to set a date by which you will have an answer - usually the next day.
After the Interview
- After the interview, give your consultant a call to discuss how it went. They will be interested to hear your feedback and your general feelings before speaking with their client. If you are interested to progress further, it will assist the consultant if your feelings are known so they can relay your feedback to their client.
- Now you can relax! You have done all you can and now leave the rest up to your consultant.
I also would like to commend you in the way you have handled my case as I believe you have presented me in the best possible light to your client and your dealings with me are very professional and pleasant. I wish you all the best in the future.
