INTERVIEW

The key to a successful interview lies in your preparation

Before attending prepare by detailing the exact location where the interview is to be held, the name and position of the person or persons interviewing you.

Plan your route and allow plenty of time for delays, it's better to be early than late. Take contact phone numbers for both potential employer and your recruitment consultant from your chosen recruitment agency.

Work your diary so that you are not pushed for time. A good interview will often extend further than anticipated, make allowances for this.

Research the Company so you know what to expect

Research the company so you know what to expect. The company web site is often the preferred source of information. If you're still not clear speak to your agent who should be able to answer or field pre-interview question to the potential employer on your behalf.

Ensure you understand the interview process. Is this the first of ? interviews. It's helpful to understand who will be conducting the interview, where they sit within the organisation and what can I expect from this interview i.e. line of questioning, format, style.

Dressing inappropriately can potentially affect employers perception of you.

Dress code has always been the 'bone of contention' as dressing inappropriately could potentially affect the employers perception of you.

It is important whatever you wear to be a true reflection of a smart and articulate person; whether you're a senior manager or an university graduate. Dress according to company culture. If you are unsure with your judgement on what to wear, then speak with your consultant who would be happy to discuss this with you.

It is imperative that when you meet your interviewer that you project a positive and confident altitude

It is imperative that when you meet your interviewer that you project a positive and confident attitude. An important note to remember is that generally people make up their minds whether they get along with someone within the first few minutes of meeting them. Make it easier for yourself by utilising this time on your initial introductions by presenting yourself professionally, confidently, without edging on arrogance.

This can be further achieved by the confidence of your own personal presentation, a firm hand shake, giving good eye contact to all you meet and in the way you converse with them. You can create confidence in an interview by providing examples that you have done your 'due diligence' on the company, preparing questions, understanding what is to be achieved from the role and what you can bring to the company. If you're unclear of any aspects of the role or company; then ask.

LISTENING is key; so when questions are put to you; listen, then construct your answers confidently and relative to the conversation in hand. There is always thinking time, so take time before responding and do not waffle as this is generally a sign that you have either not understood the question or that you do not have the answer. You are not expected to know everything and telling them you don't understand will be better respected than talking nonsense.

Ensure at all times of the interview that you promote good body language, good eye contact and try to enjoy the experience.

Below is a list of questions employers often ask:


When interviewing try to find out what your client is looking for. Once you feel you know this your confidence will grow.

'Tell me about yourself'

Employees are looking for a quick overview of both your personality, background, and how well you sell yourself and your capabilities.


'Why did you apply for the job?'

Employees are testing your level of motivation and commitment. Make sure you research thoroughly what the job entails. State the benefits you feel you will gain and reinforce the benefits you can offer. State why you want this job, not why you are leaving your present one.

'Tell me what you do in your spare time'

This has double purpose. To make sure you have a fully-rounded personality - and to ensure your hobbies won't interfere with your job. Go over your outside interests quickly, highlighting any job relevance and outlining the skills you have developed through them.

When have you been involved in teams?'

Employees want a team player; give examples of you role within teams. Underline what you have learned and how it has made you more effective within the team. Link your answers directly to the job you're after - check if they're looking for a creative, resourceful team member, a details-oriented person who will see tasks through or a positive team leader.

'What are your main strengths and weaknesses?'

This revolves around self-awareness. Again, link your strengths to the particular job. Employers want someone who knows what they are good at and where they need to improve. Everybody has weaknesses but employers want to know what you are doing to improve. Choose positive weaknesses and turn them into strengths.

'Why should we employ you?'

What skills could add value to the company? Make brief but telling comparisons between the job description and your ability to meet their needs. State briefly what you can offer, backing up with facts.

'What has been your biggest achievement?'

This reveals what motivates you and what matters to you (family, work, education or leisure?) Choose something that makes you stand out and involves positive characteristics.

'What have you learned from your past work?'

This question focuses on skills learned from your previous jobs. Think about those previous jobs, pull out the positive elements and focus on benefits to the employer.

'When did you last work under pressure or deal with conflict - and how did you cope?'

This is aimed at discovering if you can deal with problems quickly and efficiently - and confront a situation if you become frustrated.

The best technique is to think of an example and explain how the situation arose - then say how you dealt with it. If asked directly if anything made you annoyed or frustrated, be truthful but avoid appearing negative.

'What is the biggest problem/dilemma you have ever faced?'

Try to choose something that will show you in a positive light. How did you get over it? What did you learn? This will not only show how you cope under stress but also your decision-making ability and strength of character.

'What other career opportunities are you looking at?'

This will illustrate how well you have researched and thought through your chosen career area. It will also show an employer how much you really want the job.

If you just list a long series of unrelated career options, it will cast doubt on your motivation.

'Where would you like to be in five or ten years time?'

Again, if you have a clear idea, it will show your commitment and vision. If you have some insight into where you are heading, think of some of the functions and responsibilities you would hope to have.

'When have you had to….?'

Employers want real-life evidence that clearly demonstrates you have particular skills. Draw up a list of key skills required for the position (found by dissecting the job ad, job description and personal specification) and highlight at least two situations or achievements that prove you have each skill. Practice talking through each example and present a concise, hard-hitting case.

'What would you do in…..situation?'

Situational questions are used to test you overall style and approach. Carefully prepare by listing all the roles you'll potentially undertake in the new position and think up awkward questions yourself.

'What salary do you expect?'

Work out a salary range you consider reasonable. Don't undersell or oversell yourself. Give a range to indicate you're prepared to negotiate. If you do not feel comfortable holding these conversations state that you would like your agent/consultant to consult on your behalf.

'How competent are you at….?'

Many employers like to assess candidates using scoring grids with a work-based framework. This makes it important to quote practical examples showing your level of competence.

'Do you have any questions?'

Always expect this one - so prepare a list. Include a few probing questions to show you've done your research. Don't be afraid to write them down and take them to the interview with you.