Preparing well is the key step in interview success. Almost without exclusion, the interview candidate who has finished the most preparation will be the person who takes the post.
Prepare your responses:
You could never know exactly what you will be asked, but there are loads of questions which generally come up at interviews and through some basic googling and completing your research you could have a bank of answers ready for the common questions questions. There will always be questions that surprise you, but if you’ve thought through your work history, prepared examples and know your CV inside out, then you should be able to answer everything competently.
Do your reseach:
In almost every interview situation, you will be required, at some point, to confirm what you know about the post to which you’re applying. The detail and complexity of your reply depends on the position you are going for and the level of seniority, but it is crucial that you show that you have completed your homework and understand the company, the market and the competitor landscape. Their web site is always a sensible research tool and if you have time, call up the organisation and ask them to mail you any germane corporate communications.
Plan your trip:
It is incredible how many individuals turn up late for an interview, because they got lost. Know the address, print out a map and if possible do a trial run so you know exactly how long it will take to get there. Always take the main reception telephone number with you, in case of an emergency, and give yourself plenty of time.
Once the interview itself arrives, make sure that you follow the lead of the interviewer. Don’t try to use all the examples you’ve developed, just keep to the point and make sure your responses are applicable.
Don’t think that an interview has to be a one way communication flow. Try to get the interviewer to tell you what attributes they are looking for early on and make a mental note of any info that they give you. This way you can tailor your replies accordingly and ensure you say what they want to hear.
Finally, an interview is as much about first impressions as it is about your skills and experiences. Demonstrate your enthusiasm by exhibiting a positive and professional demeanor. Use a firm handshake, maintain eye contact and smile!
