subject: Interview Techniques To Provide The Best Chance Of Success [print this page] Firstly, you must prepare with the right frame of mind. Do not terrify yourself by thinking the interview is a test of you as a person which might result in failure. It is so much more than that.
The interview is your chance to show the prospective employer who you are and why you should be employed. It is your showcase, so be positive and see it as a chance not a trial.
Prepare with that attitude by referring to your CV and being sure what positive qualities you are trying to put over. Be ready to expand on the story of that project which you ran or that time the team was under pressure. This is your history so you can feel confident. Trying telling the story out loud to get used to hearing your own voice.
Do plenty of research into the company you are going to see. Have an idea where their factories or shops are, what other divisions they have, even which way their shares are going on the market. Find out how long they have been trading and who their rivals are. Be ready to ask, yes ask, questions on these areas. You will be showing yourself to be intelligent and interested.
Prepare your qualifications folder in case you are asked and include items of recent work if appropriate, as well as copy awards that might impress. You may not be asked but if you are it is not good to be saying you left it all at home.
Dress comfortably so you are not stressing yourself over unfamiliar clothes but do respect the person you are going to see by making an effort. You are going for smart and confident, not down and out or night clubber.
Smile on entry as a gentle greeting and shake hands if offered. Sit forward ready to engage and keep still whilst awaiting that first question. Be aware of nervy habits and bury them for the duration.
Keep alert as you talk so that nothing you prepared is forgotten, but do follow the lead given by the interviewer. Look them in the eye and listen to the questions. Watch their reaction. Do not talk over any note-taking they start and do not be afraid to finish your answer and allow a silence.
Smile and leave confidently; however, you really feel and await the call!
