Your looking for a new job and are successful in securing an interview… Great, what next?
Before
You can’t just turn up and hope for the best, the interviewer wants to know that you’ve put some thought into it – this shows your eager and committed.
ALWAYS research the company and remember a few points about them, they will ask you what you know and why you want to work for them and having prepared answers will show your enthusiastic and well prepared which is something they will want in an employee – try to think outside the box, reeling off where else in the world they are based is all well and good but try to come up with something different! Researching their social media is always a good shout as they normally have different and more current information there.
Dress smartly and do not wear TRAINERS, even if they are the most expensive trainers in the world it’s a no no – first impressions count and if you are dressed to impress it shows you’ve tried for them.
Make sure you know your CV inside and out, the first interview is usually going through your CV and discussing what skills you’ve gained with your previous roles.
When you secure an interview don’t be afraid to ask them what type of interview it will be and also if there is anything you can do to prepare for it, this will give you a head start and you can then prepare some answers to questions they may ask.
Always prepare several questions ready to ask at the end of the interview - for example regarding the structure of that team, if there is progression within the role etc.
During
When you meet your interviewer for the first time its natural to be nervous but just try to stay calm, offer a handshake and a friendly smile and you will soon relax.
Answer the interview questions as confidently as you can, the interviewer has seen your CV and selected you for interview, so they already believe you have the skills to do the job. If you are not sure of a question, they have asked you can ask them to rephrase it for you – this gives you time to think and to gather your thoughts.
Avoid fidgeting, slouching – we all do things when we’re nervous, but body language counts and you want to look like you are open and engaged.
Avoid talking negatively or bad-mouthing previous employers. Instead, talk about past work environments in terms of what you have learnt and accomplishments you’re proud to discuss.
And after...
Phew, the hard work is over, and you can now relax.
A follow up call or email is great you can thank them for their time and give them feedback on how you thought the interview went, this will then prompt them to do the same.
Remember feedback whether good or bad is valuable as you can learn and develop from this – if you are unsuccessful but had a good interview this is a positive, you never know what opportunities that company may have in the future!
Try to embrace interviews and don’t be afraid, use them to build your confidence and grow and before you know it, you’ll be a pro ?
