Job Interview Tips

Now you know how to write the perfect CV, you will need to know how to impress in an interview. For many people an interview can be a daunting experience, therefore to help you along the way we have provided some useful tips.

Below are some key points to remember:

• Always be prepared - Preparing properly for an interview is essential. Be confident that you know enough about the role and the company to answer interview questions.  It would be beneficial to find out the following about the employer:

  1. What they do, make or sell

  2. Who is their target market

  3. What the job role involves
     

• Create the right image – This will all depend on the type of job you are applying for.  Aim to look neat and tidy; if you look good you will feel good.
  
  
• DO NOT be late - Make sure you are not late for an interview, as this will give a bad first impression. Practice getting to the venue before the interview and aim to arrive about 10 minutes before the interview is due to start.

• Body Language – This is very important, as your body language reveals a lot about you.  Start by shaking hands with the interviewer. No matter how nervous you are, try not to fidget - playing with your hair or tapping your leg will distract the interviewer and show your nerves.  Finally make sure you sit up straight in your chair, as slouching will give the impression that you do not care.

• Be positive and enthusiastic - When answering interview questions show a positive attitude and be enthusiastic about the company and the job role. Remember to always smile.

• Practice questions - It would be useful to practice some possible questions that you might get asked with friends or family. This will prepare you for difficult questions so that you do not panic under pressure. 

Below are some typical job interview questions and suggested answers:

1. Tell me about yourself
   This is a good opening question for the interviewer to ask. It will give you a change to sell yourself and show what you can bring to the company. Keep the information brief and be positive, concentrating on your strengths and past achievements.

2. Would you describe yourself as a good team member?
   Give examples of situations where you have showed good team working skills, either in work or social situations. Prove to the interviewer that you have good communication skills and an ability to co-operate with other people.

3. Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
   Clarify that you would like to progress for a company and develop your skills.

4. Tell me a little about our company?
   If you have prepared for the interview this question should be easy. Explain the ethics of the company and what sort of organisation it is.

5. Why do you think this role will suit you?
   Tell the interviewer about your past experience and skills. If you have had any training relevant to the job this could also help. You could also mention personal qualities that you possess.

6. What experience do you have in this field?
   Tell the interviewer about relevant education, training and past jobs.

7. Tell me three of your strengths and weaknesses.
   Strengths – Highlight particular skills relevant to the job, for example reliable and hardworking. Remember to give examples.
   Weaknesses – These should be positive weaknesses, for example being a perfectionist. Try to explain how you overcame these problems in your previous jobs.

8. Why did you leave your last job?
   Be positive and tell the truth. If you were dismissed explain the reasons why, and state that you have learnt from past experiences.

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