Interview Skills

In an interview there are certain do’s and don’t’s.  Here is a  checklist for you to prepare yourself.

 What to do:

• dress smartly, look bright and attentive, and speak clearly and confidently. First impressions count!
• ensure that you know where it is exactly that you are going, being late to an interview will be a mark against you fom the start.
• find out what kind of interview it will be so you can prepare
• ensure that you know exactly what the job entails so that you able to answer questions and explain what it is exactly that you have applied for
• prepare answers for the main questions – for example, why do you want the job, what are your strengths and weaknesses, what are the main tasks in this job
• make about three or four points in each answer
• quote real examples of when you’ve used certain skills – just saying you’ve got a skill isn’t enough
• take your time when answering the questions. Make sure you understand the question and take your time if you need to think
• sell yourself. No-one else is going to! Be positive about yourself and your experiences
• prepare some questions to ask at the end – use it as an opportunity to find out more about the role and the company. But don’t ask about money or perks just yet!
• when discussing salary, know your market worth and start by quoting a little higher than this
• get feedback on your performance, whether you were successful or not
• turn off your mobile! Treat the interviewers with respect and give them your undivided attention
• keep your answers focused on what you can do for the employer, not what they can do for you

What not to do:

• don’t be late!
• don’t swear or use slang words
• don’t slouch in your seat or do anything else that makes you look disinterested
• don’t read from notes or your CV. You should be familiar enough with your own history to be able to talk about it unprompted
• don’t lie! The interviewer may see through you. Even if you get the job, your employer can dismiss you if they find out
• don’t let your nerves show too much. A few nerves are normal but extreme nerves will affect your performance. Use breathing techniques and try to remember that it’s not a life and death situation – there are plenty of jobs out there!
• don’t be arrogant and assume you’ve got the job. The employer will not want to offer the position to someone who is disrespectful and over-confident
• don’t discuss controversial topics such as religion, politics and gender relations
• don’t criticise former employers or colleagues. Interviewers may mark you down as a troublemaker and a gossip