Before the Interview

• Prepare thoroughly for the interview. Research the company by reading their website, asking for the annual report and other company literature. Remember that your consultant should also be viewed as a resource: it is more than likely that they will have been to see the company and may well have met the person who will be interviewing you;
• Read through your own application – what did you write? What did your CV look like? In all likelihood you will be asked questions pertaining directly to it or be asked to talk the employer through it;
• Think of questions you may be asked and prepare answers. If you can find a willing helper, ask them to conduct a mock interview with you;
• Write down questions that are important for you to ask about the company and the position;
• Ask the employer which documentation (certificates, degrees and diplomas) you should take with you to the interview;
• Ensure that your appearance is smart and professional, it is better to be overdressed than under;
• Arrive on time. Lateness for an interview, whatever the reason is inexcusable. It is important to allow as much time as possible for your journey and maybe do a practice run of the journey the day before the interview if you are not familiar with the location.
  

During & After the Interview

• Remember to be open, honest and positive when talking. Remember your body language – do not sit with your arms folded, do not play with your pen – and try to ensure it gives the same open, honest impression as you want your words to convey;
• It can be useful to ask the interviewer if they mind you taking notes. This can help you focus and jot down information of interest or points you want to question at a later point;
• Sell yourself by bringing out the relevant aspects of your experience. Try to show progression and initiative by mentioning things such as any special systems experience, secondments or staff supervision;
• Answer all questions that you are asked. Common questions may be:
  # Tell me a bit about yourself!
  # Have you seen our website? What do you know about the company?
  # Why have you applied for this position?
  # What are your positive qualities?
  # What are your less positive qualities?
  # What did you bring to your last position?
  # Why should we appoint you?
  # Why are you looking for a new job?
  # What are your plans for the future?
• Ask relevant questions. The interview is an opportunity for you to gain a clear and accurate picture of the job you have applied for, the company and what it would be like to work there. It is a precondition for a successful interview that you have read about the company and its business operations in advance. By doing so, you will be better prepared to be able to ask questions and create a better impression. Questions indicate your interest and commitment. Avoid questions about salaries and benefits at first interview stage. Some questions may include (if the information has not already been covered in course of the interview):
  # What responsibilities are attached to this job?
  # Can you specify the tasks in more detail?
  # Why was this position made available?
  # How does the cooperation between the different functions / departments / business areas work?
  # What should I know about your company?
  # What are the company’s future prospects and visions?
  # Are there any future plans for the company in terms of investment and growth?
  # Why should I choose to work for your company?
  # What opportunities for career and personal development are there?
  # Do you offer any further training or study programmes?
  # Does the company have ongoing performance and salary reviews?
  # How are these carried out?
  # Do you have an induction/training programme for new employees?
  # What should I know about the working conditions (overtime, business travel etc.)?
• Thank the interviewer for his/her time and always remember to reaffirm your interest in the job. Ask what the next step is;
• If you do not get the job, contact your recruitment consultant and ask what decided the outcome; the answer you get could be useful for your next interview.