The Successful Interview

The way in which you present yourself at interview is the most important part - don't jeopardise your chance by being unprepared.

Before the Interview

• Research the company - use the internet. How big is it? How many sites? How international? Where does their main business lie? What do you know about this business sector? Find out what you can about the department - how many people work there? How is it structured?
• How many people will you meet at interview and what are their positions? Will you work closely with them? How long will the interview be? Will it be technical? Will they interview you in a foreign language? Will you be expected to make a presentation? Will there be a test? What do the company like about your CV?
• Why has the vacancy arisen? Is there a job specification? Will there be staff supervision responsibilities? What are the prospects for career progression? What training is available? What is the salary package?

Your consultant will be able to assist you with most of these questions, but do some background research for yourself. If possible, drive to the company beforehand to ensure you know where they are to allow the appropriate travelling time. Aim to arrive about 10 mins before your interview to allow you to relax. Try to keep a clear head the night before to ensure you are fresh.

Checklist of possible questions

• What were your main responsibilities in your last job? - You should be prepared to give examples from your experience demonstrating what you say.
• What were the main problem areas? - How did you deal with them? - What are you wanting to be doing in 5 years? Remember not to threaten your prospective boss and that not every company is looking for ambitious people.
• What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses? (you can turn the response round by bringing a question into your answer)
• Are there any people you find difficulty working with?
• Why do you want to join this organisation?
• What attracts you to the job?
• Why are you leaving your job?
• Why should we employ you? ……..And finally ask yourself the worst question you could be asked about yourself and rehearse a positive answer.
  

Presentation

Dress professionally with a little caution - looking clean, crisp and well groomed - look the part! Even if you know the company is relatively relaxed in their dress code - always attend looking and feeling your best! First impressions are very important.

At the interview

Remember to introduce yourself clearly with confidence with a good firm handshake, good eye contact and a winning smile. If offered refreshment think about how you will cope whilst being interviewed - it is often better to politely refuse even though it can perhaps make a setting more informal.

Answer questions clearly - don't ramble. Think about what you want to say. Be confident, and listen. A good listener usually makes a good communicator and also enables you to take an interest in what is being said. Show an interest in the job - even if you are not sure, you always have the option to turn it down. If there is something you don't understand - ask. It is better to clear problems now. Do ask questions:

• Give examples of how you have achieved your aims, bring in your strengths. If possible give examples of your initiative, working well under pressure, attention to detail, meeting deadlines, always completing the job, being a listener, a team player and a "doer"
• Never criticise your past employers, smoke, swear, interrupt, argue, be personal or familiar.
• Do smile, look at the interviewer(s), always tell the truth and be positive.
• Will there be travel abroad?
• Is there the opportunity to meet foreign clients? Client visits?
• What is expected in the first year - objectives/targets/tasks?
• How will performance be assessed? Is salary linked to it?
• What happened to the previous person?
• What are the problems of the job?
• What is the company structure and future?
• Are there any reservations about you? (This is a difficult question to ask but will give you the opportunity to overcome those reservations now.)
• And lastly, what salary package is proposed. (Some companies prefer to answer this question at second interview, and want you to inspired by the job and company NOT the salary.)

If you have any testimonials to support your experience, take them with you and make sure you leave them, together with your CV, to act as an aide memoir. Remember, when you are leaving, shake hands, smile and tell them you are looking forward to receiving an offer!

Success does not come easily, but preparation can ensure that it is not an ordeal - you may even enjoy it! Good Luck.

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