Do your research
Find out as much as you can about the department / team you are applying to join; what do they do, who are the senior leaders, what is the culture like. You are likely to be asked "why you want to work here?"; so having an understanding will be invaluable.
Keep your CV fresh
Review it regularly and update it so it stands out amongst others. If you can look to align your CV with the job role you are applying for; hi-light relevant experience or roles that are similar.
Prepare
If you are not familiar with where you are being interviewed, plan your route or find the meeting room the day before – this will avoid you being late. Leave plenty of time in case of any delays. Think about the questions you want to ask and have them written down. Make sure your chosen outfit is clean and fits – get it out the day before to make certain. Most importantly – get a good night's sleep!
Dress for success
First impressions are made as soon as we walk through the door for an interview so make sure your outfit supports the impact you want to make. In general a suit and tie is going to make a better impression than jeans and a tee short and scruffy shoes.
Listen
Make sure you are focused on what the interviewer is asking you so you can respond appropriately. Don’t be distracted as may mis-hear the question and give a poor response.
What you say ... and don’t say
Be concise and accurate with your responses. If you don’t understand a question ask for it to be re-phrased or check understanding. Use the CAR framework opposite to keep on track. Think about your body language. Have good eye contact, smile, sit properly in the chair – it could be the difference between success or rejection.
Leave a good impression
Shake hands and thank interviewer for their time – this will show professionalism and confidence.
Some commonly asked questions
We are not able to guarantee these questions will come up but they often do so prepare just incase you are asked.
- Tell me about yourself?
- What are your strengths?
- What are your weaknesses?
- Why should we offer you the role over other candidates?
- Why do you want to work here?
- What three positive things would your manager say about you?
- What three negative things would your manager say about you?
- What are you most proud of?
- What questions do you have?