The interview
How to succeed where others fail.
Aan interview lasting 40 minutes or longer is the time and place to sell yourself, no one is going to do it for you.
Preparation
Always research the company. Useful background information can be found on the web, trade directories. Try obtaining product literature from the company. Visit their developments.
Collate information on yourself, I.E performance figures, letters of commendation, references. Re read through your CV are their gaps, inconsistencies? If yes make notes of explanation Take another copy of your CV etc; Keep in a folder for presentation at the interview.
While preparing yourself for the interview, take some time to think about these questions.
• What do I want from this interview? Different life style, money, future recognition, career aspiration, role satisfaction?
• What can I bring to the company?
• What are my key personalities, characteristics?
• What are my main achievements?
• Where do I see myself in 2-5 yrs time?
• If you were the employer would you employ yourself?
Prepare questions to ask at the interview other than just salary / holidays e.g.
a) What precisely will be expected of me?
b) What level of the responsibility does the position hold?
c) What level of performance is expected?
d) How long has the company been established in this field
e) What plans have the company for the future?
f) What future career prospects are there in this role / company?
The interview
Always allow yourself time to arrive 10 mins early.
Personal presentation is very important as:
In the interview 55% Appearance 38% speech 7% words
Leave overcoats, umbrellas etc in reception. Just carry your folder, briefcase. Remember that the first impression at an interview is paramount. All employers place great emphasis on their first impression of the candidate. Therefore, be smart, professional, courteous and friendly. A warm smile works wonders but don’t over do it. False grins create an impression of insincerity.
Avoid, fidgeting, looking around or staring into space, slouching or swinging in the chair. Making jokes – let the interviewer make the jokes, laugh but don’t you start them. Present yourself in a clear and positive manner,
Answer the question –if you are unsure of the question say “I’m not sure what you are asking would you rephrase the question”
Body language.
- Make eye contact when answering questions
- Site squarely in the chair
- Arms place on chair arms on lap
- Being open, relax and attentive builds rapport.
Remember:
Its harder being interviewed when you have rushed to get there, failed to do any preparation either of the company or yourself as the majority of candidates who do this:
Fail to prepare – prepare to fail.
In the current climate make sure you are giving yourself the best opportunity to be hired!