Interview Tips
Interview Tips and Advice
Preparing for the Interview
Preparation is essential. Find out as much as you can about the organisation. Think out your answers to likely questions. In particular, be prepared to:
- Talk about your present job and how it relates to the job on offer
- Say why you want the job
- Say what you think you can contribute to your new employer
- Talk about your career goals and ambitions
- Discuss your strengths and/or weaknesses
- Talk about your home circumstances, education, qualifications and leisure interests
Keep yourself up-to-date on current affairs and well informed about recent developments in areas related to the job. Think up questions of your own and list them down. If you intend to take a portfolio to the interview, organise your material carefully and make sure it will show you up in a good light. Make your travel plans with the aim of arriving for the interview in good time. Check out your clothes, documents, etc. on the day before the interview, and try to get a good night's sleep.
The Day of the Interview
Take great care with dress and appearance – remember the importance of first impressions. Set out for the interview in good time and arrive punctually. Be friendly and polite to the receptionist and to other interviewees who happen to be waiting. Greet the interviewer confidently. Let the interviewer take the initiative in hand shaking, etc.
Listen carefully to questions as they are put. Be prepared to answer most questions at length. Use your voice effectively. Speak up and try to convey energy and enthusiasm. Avoid slang and other loose expressions. Do not put on a 'posh' accent.
Be positive. Emphasize the strong points you have to offer. Do not dwell on weakness or mistakes. Do not become agitated or defensive if the interviewer is indifferent, aggressive or incompetent. Stay calm and respond thoughtfully and politely. Throughout the interview make sure to convey enthusiasm for the job. An employer will not take on a half hearted employee.
End the interview confidently. Thank the interviewer for having seen you. As soon as possible after the interview carry out a systematic review of your performance.