for candidates

1. Get as much information as possible about the Company you will be potentially working for.   Also take some time to think about what your role will be in the post you have applied for.  Libraries and the internet are good sources.

2. Write down some notes and questions for yourself and take these with you.   Think about what the person interviewing you will want to know about you and be prepared to answer questions not only about your skills but also about your personality and home life.

3. Think about what paperwork you will need to take with you (e.g. certificates of education, references, course details etc.) and get everything ready to take.  Take your interview letter with you for name and address details.

4. Think about what you are going to wear to the interview before hand.   You will want to project a tidy, organised image so dress as smart as you can as this will be your first impression to the interviewer.

5. Think about you and why you would like the position and how you see yourself progressing in both the role and within the firm.  Think about your achievements and how they are relevant to the vacancy.   Think about those things you are good at and also what you need to improve or learn.  Make sure you can answer questions about your future aspirations both personally and at work.

6.  Finally, you also want to know whether you want to join them!   The interview is a two way process and you want be sure it is the right vacancy for you.   However, try not to talk about salaries and benefits at this stage.   Your agency is usually happy to negotiate a package with the company on your behalf.    Try to direct your questions in a way that will show you are interested in the vacancy and your long term prospects within the company and not just the salary package.   Write down some questions before hand and take them along with you.   This will show you are prepared and organised.  Remember, being well prepared will give you more confidence at the interview itself.

1. Try to arrive a little early to give yourself time to freshen up and time for some thoughts before meeting the interviewer.   Try to look calm and confident (a simple smile can work wonders!).

2. If there are company brochures or literature in the reception area and you have time, read them to give you a feel for the company. If you have the opportunity, talk to the receptionist or other staff about the vacancy and the company.

The initial greeting of yourself and the interviewer is very important.   These first few minutes give both of you a lot of information about each other.  Have a firm handshake to show your confidence and exchange usual pleasantries in a friendly, calm but professional manner.   Be your natural self.

1.    Think about your body language during the interview process - here are a definite list of Do’s and Dont’s!

• Don’t fidget or slouch in the chair
• Don’t fold your arms or cross legs (too defensive!)
• Don’t stare but equally don’t not hold eye contact
• Don’t over use your hands when talking
• Don’t look around the room or look disinterested
• Do sit comfortably without slouching and relax
• Do hold a natural eye contact with the interviewer(s) when he/they talk
• Be attentive, nod, smile and look interested
• Above all be your natural self and be honest

3.    When answering questions try to remember the following:

• Speak up so you can be heard
• Try not to give “yes” or “no” answers but avoid lengthy explanations too
• It is good to pause before an answer to show you have thought about your reply
• Try not to sound too opinionated when answering personal questions
• If more than one interviewer look at each one in turn when replying
• If you are asked a hypothetical question take your time in replying

At the end of the interview you may be asked if you have any questions.   This is where your preparation comes in and you can refer to your notes.   Ask questions that will show you would seriously like to join the Company.    Try to start your questions with “why”, “where” or “what” so the interviewer will not give you a “yes” or “no” answer.

• Try not to ask only about salary and benefits as this can be covered at a later stage.
• If you feel the interview went very well and you would like the position then say you are interested.
• Always thank the interviewer(s) for his/their time and proffer another firm handshake and a smile before departing.
  

Remember the interviewer wants to know as much about you as possible so sit down before hand and think about your work history, what you have done well at and what you have enjoyed about different work places. This is your chance to shine and to “sell” your personality and skills.