TIPS FOR INTERVIEWING
The interview is the brief period where the employer makes a decision on whether you would be a suitable employee for their organisation. This is a critical time when you need to make a good impression.
Here are some tips to help you through this
Things to Do
Be punctual – arrive around 15 minutes before your appointment, clearly introduce yourself and the purpose of your visit.
Be professional and pleasant to everyone you meet from the moment you step into the premises until the time you walk out.
Dress appropriately – Ask your Consultant what clothing would be most appropriate for that particular environment;
Pay attention to what the interviewer is saying; take interest in what is being said.
Be confident in yourself, the interviewer will pick up on this and they will have more confidence in you. Good posture and eye contact are essential.
Smile, it says a thousand words.
Speak clearly, try to be to the point and always be truthful.
Be formal, even if the employer is relaxed, they are still assessing you as a potential employee.
Be prepared for your interview. This means being knowledgeable about the company, their work and also informed about the person you are meeting. Ask your consultant about the person you are interviewing with.
Review the client website prior to the interview. This will help prepare you for any questions they may ask.
When you are asked, show the employer that you are keen on the position.
Know your strengths, weaknesses and goals; this is a commonly asked question in interviews.
Have some of your experience prepared in your mind that relates directly to the position you are going for.
Provide examples to support your answers of experience that relates directly to the job you are going for, skills you have developed from previous employment and accomplishments.
Things to Do
Be unprepared. A lack of understanding of the position and the company will lead to you delivering poor answers.
Be nervous. Although this may seem quite difficult at the time, remember that you will answer accurately when you are focused on the questions being asked. If you do start feeling nervous, just take a moment and take a deep breath. Remember, if you don’t know the answer to a particular question, just say so. Don’t panic, this will take a lot of pressure off you.
An interview is a two way conversation, answer any questions in a clear and articulate manner way.
Be negative about yourself. (Think in a “Can Do” attitude); and
Speak negatively about your current or previous employers, their procedures or company. (Always be positive).
Questions you may want to ask a potential employer
- What is the next step in the hiring process?
- What are the day-to-day responsibilities of this position?
- How is an employee evaluated and promoted? When does this occur?
- Do you offer any training programs to your staff?
- What are the company’s plans for future growth?
- Is there a high turnover of staff? If so, why?
- What are the company’s strengths?
- What does the company want to improve on?
- Can you tell me what the working environment is like?
- What qualities are important to you?
After the interview it is important that you contact your Command Recruitment consultant as soon as possible to discuss how the interview went and your thoughts on the position. It is important for us to discuss your level of interest including any negatives in order for us to communicate efficiently and effectively with any potential employer.
We are constantly including the latest information and tips on how to perform better in interviews. Get them here!