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Interview Tips

 

The interview is without doubt the most stressful point of the job search process for the job seeker and also the one that counts most.

Your potential employer has received a pile of applications and resumes. These have been weeded through. Now it's time to put faces to the paperwork and ask probing, insightful questions to determine the perfect candidate for the prized position.

Whatever happens, don't be disheartened. See every interview as a learning experience. If you are not successful, ring and ask for feedback. Determine what you did well and where you need to improve.

Preparation

Identify four or five of your most valuable strengths, thinking along the lines of personal qualities. These could include the ability to stay calm while other around you are panicking; commitment; willingness to work long hours; lateral thinking; team leader, team player, sense of humour. Prepare an example of how you have demonstrated each of these strengths and make sure you get an opportunity to mention them somewhere during the interview.

At the same time confront some of your weaknesses. While you don't need to share these with your interviewer/s, you don't necessarily want to land yourself a job you will hate.

Know the organisation

If you can't demonstrate some interest in how the company makes their money, they're unlikely to offer you any of it. The more you can find out about the following, the better:

  • company size, form, locations and divisions;
  • products and services, target market;
  • culture and reputation;
  • financial performance and history, including turnover, profitability and exports;
  • major competitors.

If it is a small company that is unlisted on the stock exchange, you could be limited to word-of-mouth. But if it is a listed company you can research in libraries, trade references and newspapers.

Plan the journey

  • Plan your route carefully.
  • Allow for delays and traffic jams.
  • Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before the interview so that you're relaxed.
  • Arrive at the interview venue no more than five minutes early. Use the time to soak up the atmosphere of the company and mentally go over what you want to say.

Dress appropriately

  • Dress comfortably but presentably.
  • Make sure your shoes are clean and avoid overpowering aftershave/perfume.
  • Dress in dark blue, black. Darker outfits give an image of control, while lighter ones tend to show a need for attention.
  • Make sure that you are still well presented if you take off your jacket.

At the interview

You're prepared, on time, perfectly groomed for the role and ready to convince them that you're the person they need. Along with the other applicants, you will have been allocated a certain amount of time in which to convince the interviewer or panel of interviewers.

Make a good first impression

The first impression is always the strongest and most lasting. Be friendly, but not over-friendly. Create a positive first impression by offering a firm handshake and make direct eye contact.

 

Bestill nå!
Long Term

3 to 12 months