Job Interview Techniques
Before going to your interview, make sure you prepare yourself by finding as much as you can about the hiring organisation. There are numerous sources of information about nearly every company. Information is on the Internet, in the library, in shops, in databases and available from the recruitment company (if the job has been sourced through an agency).
In particular, the Internet should give you a wealth of information about the company and the industry in which the company operates. Most industries also have trade publications so have a read through these to gain knowledge about the industry and current trends and issues that they face.
Here are some tips:
- Call the company/agency and request sales literature, annual reports, technical information, product brochures, information, etc.
- Log on to the Internet and visit the company website, spending time looking at financial information and gaining a good understanding of what the company does, and their goals and values.
- If available, also access the press area of the website. This will give you articles from the media and insightful information about the company. It will also ensure you are aware of recent press releases involving the company.
- If the company website does not have a press area, access information online through search engines such as Google or MSN. Alternatively, log on to media sites such as the Financial Times website and run a search on the company.
Pre Interview Planning
Research shows that people make their mind up about someone in the first few seconds of meeting with them. So it's best to get off to a good start.
No matter how well qualified you may seem 'on paper' for a job, when recruiting, an employer will still be interested in your personality and presentation. Indeed with more than one suitable applicant for a role, interview performance is often the deciding factor. This makes the face-to-face meeting a critical part of the recruitment process and you will need to impress from the start.
Following the interview preparation guidelines below will help overcome any interview nerves and instill confidence for a productive meeting with your potential employer.
Practical Tips
- Double-check the date, time and location of the interview and be familiar with the name and title of the interviewer. Take your interview confirmation letter with you.
- Prepare your interview outfit in advance. Ensure your appearance is both smart and comfortable.
- Familiarise yourself with the journey to the location, to ensure you arrive in plenty of time. If driving, do a 'dummy run'. Check timetables and book train tickets in advance. Anticipate delays, especially on unknown routes. Contact your interviewer swiftly if you are unavoidably delayed on the day.
- Do not arrive over-laden with belongings. Take any requested certificates, references, etc., a spare CV and a notepad and pen. A mobile phone is always useful, but ensure it is turned off before arrival.
- Be punctual for your meeting but it is inadvisable to arrive more than half an hour early. Leave yourself enough time to visit the toilets and tidy up if necessary.
- Remember that you start making an impression on your prospective employer the moment you arrive at reception. Be courteous to the receptionist and any other staff you may meet prior to your interview. Their opinion of you is often sought and may even have some influence on the final selection.
