Interview Techniques - Top Tips

Preparation is key, knowledge is power, first impressions really do count.

There are a variety of ways in which the recruitment process can progress -  first encounters with a potential new employer maybe on the telephone or face to face, either way you need to be prepared and professional.

Interviews are a 2 way process, its equally important that the role is right for you as the potential employee as it is for the employer to find a suitable new recruit to fit with the team. 

Follow these vital steps to ensure best foot forwards. 

• Do your homework on the company, check out their website, and understand more about them as a company, and their history. 
• Plan the questions you may wish to ask - most importantly, why is this role available ? who else is in the team, ask about the team or department structure, ask questions about the product or service to ensure a full understanding.
• Plan your journey, leave yourself enough time for travelling and arrive slightly early.
• Plan what you are going to wear to ensure a professional yet relevant appearance, dress accordingly for the job, this is another chance to make a good first impression.
• Take another copy of your CV with you, plus any relevant supporting evidence / documentation.
• Know who you are meeting, so you can ask for the relevant person upon your arrival.
• Always shake hands when greeting people, look them in the eye with a polite smile and listen to what they have to say.
• Be prepared, know your CV inside out, they will ask questions on different areas of your CV, your character, how you deal with others, managing workload, keep your answers to the point and in a relaxed manner, try not to chat too much or move off topic. Have some stats to hand, for example your best sales figures, creative ideas, how you cope with pressure, how you work within a team, or equally able to manage others, or work alone.
• Smile, listen carefully and relax.

Good Luck