Before the interview 

 

Be prepared 

 

Most companies have a corporate Website – they are a great source of information on the company background and history. Additionally, you should do some further research on the company’s products and services over the internet and read up on its competitors. 

​

The first rule of going on interview is don’t be late. Check the location and plan your journey in advance – give yourself plenty of time allowing for possible delays, if you do get held up, DON’T panic, telephone your consultant who will call ahead to inform the interviewer. 

 

From the moment you arrive be courteous – treat everyone with respect beginning with the receptionist. Greet the interviewer with a firm handshake, if in doubt practice beforehand. Make eye contact and smile. 

 

Word of caution

 

If you smoke, please don’t have a ‘nerve calming’ cigarette before the interview. There is nothing more off-putting than the smell of smoke lingering on your clothes when you arrive at the interview. Similarly, ensure that you are professionally attired, have neat and well-groomed appearance, check for “sweaty palms” and body odour. 

 

During the interview 

​

• Be confident and positive and look directly at the interviewer when you talk and listen 

• Listen attentively and closely to the question, and take a moment to think before you answer 

• Speak clearly, be enthusiastic, and express a keen interest in the position 

• Try to keep your hands still – if you are very nervous – sit on your hands or hold them in your lap 

• Keep to the point and don’t ramble 

• Always be honest 

• Never bad-mouth previous employer or manager, keep your answers professional and objective 

 

Some questions that may require answering 

 

Always answer questions positively, try and turn a negative answer into a positive. 

 

• What do you know about us? 

• Describe your present duties and responsibilities 

• Have you read the job description? 

• Why do you want this particular job? How can you add value to the current role? 

• What are your strengths and weaknesses? 

• Where do you see yourself in five years? 

• How would you describe yourself? What management style suits you best? 

• Why are you leaving your current/past job for such a short period of time? 

• What do you dislike about your current job? 

• What do you do in your spare time – what are your interests? 

• Do you have any questions you would like to ask us? (And of course you will say yes!!)