Interview Tips From CV Master Careers

The Obvious

  

Be on time

It is so simple yet so difficult! Be kind to yourself; get everything ready the night before. Plan your route and try to arrive early. If you are super-organised you could try going to the interview venue the day before to ensure that you know exactly where you are going. If this is not possible consider using a route planner or map service such as Multimap @ www.multimap.com. If you are using public transport make sure you leave in plenty of time, allowing for any delays.

Be Prepared

Have a copy of your CV to hand; make sure it is the same copy you sent to the interviewers. Go over your CV the night before so that you can be prepared to back up any statements. Take any supporting documentation with you.

Prepare some answers to commonly asked interview questions. Some example questions with directions on how to answer them can be found on the Career Advice page of our website. LINK

Smile

If you are nervous it will show but a genuine smile will demonstrate that you are friendly and relax you. Remember that the interviewer may well be nervous as well. Be positive and the nerves will melt away. Fake it until you make it!

Wear appropriate clothing

Each industry sector has its own style of dress. Be observant and try to fit in to your environment. Visit beforehand if this will help you. If it is raining, take an umbrella. It is the small touches that will make you stand out from the competition.

Know your Industry

Ensure that you keep up to date with recent developments and news items. If possible give examples relevant to topical issues in response to questions. Most sectors have websites and newsletters or will add you to their mailing list. Show that you have a keen interest in what you are doing.

Some companies will even offer to e-mail you vacancies as soon as they come up, so you can be first to apply.

The Not So Obvious

Be personable
It is important to be friendly open and try and make a good impression on the interviewer. You are trying to demonstrate that you can integrate into their working environment. Therefore it helps if they think you will fit in to the existing team.

Make good eye contact

This is important as this will ensure that you make a good impression. This can be especially difficult if there is more than one interviewer, such as during panel interviews. You can practice with friends if you find this hard.

Assess the company

Don't forget to try to establish if you would be happy to work for the company. Be honest with yourself. Ask questions if you need to. Do not allow yourself to become overawed by the process; it is your life and you need to make an informed decision. Try to find out as much about the company as you can beforehand. Some research is better than none. If you are serious, companies often give out copies of their annual report or it may be available online.

Be relevant

Think very carefully before you answer any interview questions. Make sure you know what is being asked before answering. Try to give recent examples to demonstrate your skills to any questions asked. Do not rush your answers.

And finally

Don't worry; just do your best; that is all anyone can do! It is a learning experience, so evaluate your performance.