Tips
Interview Preparation
Interviews can be stressful situations; some people thrive in these situations and others freeze. To give you the best chance of showcasing your experience, interest and suitability for a role, it pays to be prepared.
Below are 10 points that you should prepare in advance of any interview. They are not guaranteed to secure you the job, but they will ensure that you have done your research and are fully prepared to talk coherently about your experience and have a good knowledge of your prospective new employer.
1) Read through & understand the job spec for the role – How do you fit each of the role requirements? It's useful to write down notes to aid recall on the day.
2) Know your CV & standard interview questions– be prepared to talk about your achievements, revenue generation, challenging projects and results. Prepare answers for questions such as: Why are you looking to leave, Why are you best person for role, what are your strengths/weaknesses etc.
3) Look at the company website - read interesting blogs, about us section, client pages, things you like about it, who works there – do you know anyone?
4) Do your research on the interviewers - check them out on LinkedIn and Google – see if any commonality from school, education, background, interests. Anything that may help to build rapport.
5) Do your research on their competitors /products/ services – SWOT analysis – bring ideas and thoughts to the interview on how you can add value.
6) Research their markets & clients – the aim is to be able to converse on the same level, speaking the same language - know the relevant trade magazines /shows/ conferences.
7) Prepare Questions – Things that you want to know, why you should join the company, what are the future career options – you are looking to show interest and engagement with the business… Not appropriate to ask salary, benefits, holidays, hours etc. – liaise with your recruiter on these points.
8) Check dress code – Always aim to be slightly smarter, but dress accordingly to the industry, sector and business work attire.
9) Know the journey and how to get there – Have the contact details of the office for unforeseen delays, but ideally aim to arrive 10minutes early.
10) Bring a note pad, copy of CV, examples of relevant work, phone on silent.