The purpose of an interview is for potential employer and employee to get to know one another better and decide whether they are a ‘fit’ for the role. Remember, it is as much an opportunity for the candidate to learn more about the organisation’s suitability for them as it is for the organisation to learn more about them.
We have put together some brief tips and techniques for surviving and thriving in interviews. Once again, though, it is important that you decide which tips are best for you and to take a path you feel entirely happy with.
The first area is preparation. With this in mind, ensure that you know/have the following before your appointment:
- Name of company
- Website, brochures, details of clients, competitors, locations and parent companies etc. Demonstrating an interest is vital
- The role you will be interview for
- Date and time of your interview
- A main Reception number, or through number for the interviewer/department
After that, tick off this checklist:
- Research the company well, so you can answer the inevitable “What do you know about us?” and impress by throwing a few facts into the conversation. You should have done some work in this direction already, when preparing your CV
- Following on, have some sensible, informed questions prepared
- Know the route and plan your journey, giving yourself enough time to absorb reasonable delays
- If you are held up, phone ahead as soon as possible to let the employer know
- Take a copy of your CV and crib notes on experience to refresh your memory beforehand
- Take a copy of the job description and ensure you are fully familiar with it
- Take a copy of your letter/email of invitation to interview, or details and contacts of the person who called you by phone
- All this material should be carried in a smart folder, binder or attaché case
- Ensure your appearance is business-like and smart. Dress conservatively, avoiding vivid colours or patterns, in pressed, clean shires, blouses, ties, trousers and suits. Check shoes, nails and hair before setting off.
