‘By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail’
An old and very much used saying but has been proven time and time again. If you go into an interview without any knowledge of where you are and who you are meeting it will show and it will go against you.
- Research the job using the job specification
If you are provided the job specification you will be able to see what skills you can bring to the role from your previous work. It will also help you best prepare yourself for the interview, by giving you an indication as to what experiences you need to talk about.
- Research the skills and attributes the employer is looking for from the job description and identify any skills and experience you have which are relevant for the role
Being able to provide spoken evidence of times when you excelled in your previous roles, and, more importantly, when this relates to the role you are interviewing for will massively go in your favour. This shows that you understand the role you are applying for you and demonstrates that your skills are suitable for the role.
- Research the company using their website and social media accounts
Going that extra mile and finding out what the company do / when they started / where they work will show that you have commitment to the role prior to joining the company. By going on their social media accounts, you may get an insight into the company – finding out what they do for their employees and what their company attitude is.
- Prepare answers to potential questions that may be asked – examples and evidence of how your skills and experience match the criteria for the vacancy
Linking back to researching the job description, it is always best to have basic interview answers prepared. Thinking of times when you went above and beyond / when you felt proud of yourself at work / what you could work on / what skills do you have that are relevant to the role. It is also wise to describe times when you have worked well within a team and on your own.
- Prepare questions that you have for the employer – be inquisitive and demonstrate you have a keen interest in the company and the job role
Try to think of a couple of questions, one that focus’ on the company as a whole and one about how the role works, maybe what the pros and cons of the role are. Avoid asking about holiday / wage unless it’s brought up by the interviewees. You can ask these questions via a phone call or email later if you get offered the role.
- Plan the route and, if possible, practice the journey prior to your interview
If you can do a trial run of the route to your interview before hand, it will help stop nerves on the day if you know where you’re going.
ALWAYS get there at least 10 minutes early, giving you time to go to the toilet / take a breath / check you are at the right place. It is always best to take a bottle of water as well in case there aren’t any facilities for a drink when you’re there.
- Know the name, job title and phone number of the person who is going to interview you
Double check this a couple of days before you go. This information will usually be provided to you, but it best to ask for a written confirmation via email if it is not provided.
Have this information to hand on the day of the interview so that when you arrive you can ask for the correct person.
- If you are going to be late always ring and let the employer / recruitment company know
As soon as you have any inclination that you may be late, you need to get in touch, even if there’s only a chance. The company will appreciate you getting in touch to pre warn them.
This links back to knowing who you are interviewing with, as you can call the company and ensure the message is left for them personally.
- Wear appropriate clothing – suit/smart business attire, formal shoes
Even if the company is showing as having a casual attitude, it is still best to wear a smart outfit. If you are unable to due to are exceptional circumstances, these should be communicated to the company beforehand.
It shouldn’t have to be said, but always ensure that you have washed beforehand and that you have good hygiene for the day.
Giving a good impression, making an effort and being professional are all key factors in a successful job interview. Even if you don’t get the role, you may be remembered by the company or the recruitment agency for other roles that come up.
Plus, always remember to take your time when answering any questions, everyone gets nervous but slowing down and taking a breath will keep your head clear. We have provided a small interview prep guide below to ease any nerves or stresses!
Good Luck!
