Interview Adviceyour recruitment, CV, curriculum vitae, vacancies, interviews, jobs

Interview
“A formal meeting in person arranged for the assessment of the qualifications, person specification and suitability of an applicant”.

Interviews can be enjoyable if prepared for and conducted in the correct manner; all employers look for certain qualities and below are a few helpful hints to achieve the basics:

Be Prepared - “You never get a second chance, to make a first impression”

Every interview needs to be treated with the same amount of planning whether it be informal, formal, a large or small company - they are all as important.

Initially: Consider what you should wear- it is always better to be over dressed. If you have the opportunity before your interview, research the dress code by going along and noting the dress code of people entering and leaving the building.

Jewellery: Never have too much - its better to be minimal. 

What to take with you:

  • Copy of your most current CV
  • Proof of permission to work in the UK
     (Full Birth Certificate, Passport, Visa, Etc.)
    National Insurance Number
    (Card or official letter, P60/P45)
  • Relevant Certificates
  • Copies of references from previous employers
  • Company literature or a couple of pages from their website
  • Change for parking
  • A map and directions
  • Mints or gum

If you have time try to do a trial run prior to your interview; this will help you determine travel and arrival time and give you the opportunity to check out local facilities.

Carrying documents: Consider what you would use to carry your documents in - a presentation folder is always a safe option.

Research the company: Make sure you do your homework, check out the website and press for information. What do they do? What are their visions and values?

On the day

Arrival: Arrive ten minutes early, giving you time to relax. If you smoke, have a mint or chew gum and dispose of it before entering the building. Turn off or silence your mobile phone so no distractions occur.

In reception: Introduce yourself and advise them on whom you are here to see. When sat in reception, take a note of the people who work there and any company details that may be on display (Investors in People, company literature etc...)

Greeting the interviewer: A firm hand shake, make eye contact and, most importantly, a smile - it’s your interview as much as theirs.

Drink: If offered a drink take it; this can be used to buy you time to answer a difficult question. Just take a sip to calm your nerves and prepare yourself before answering.

Once seated: Be prepared - take out everything you need before the interview begins; it's better to have it to hand than fumble for it when asked. Sit yourself in a comfortable position - you never know how long the interview may take.

Take control: Stay positive and focused at all times - the interview is a two-way process; you need to make sure this job is as right for you as you are for the job.

Questions: At the end, never go back over what has already been discussed; if you have done your homework you will have no company questions at this stage. Show an interest in the interviewer - ask how they view the company and what drew them to apply. This may help you make your decision on whether or not the company is right for you. Confirm the date you will be notified of the outcome of the interview.

Ending: At the end of the interview thank them for their time and having the opportunity to attend the interview.

Well done you have successfully completed the interview!