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Interview Tips

Once you've put the effort into getting an interview networkjobs wants you to be as successful as possible when you are in front of your potential employer. We have listed down some pointers to think about....

Preparation

• Research the company before the interview. Almost all companies these days have their own web sites, which can be a valuable source of information regarding their products or services, culture and clients.
• Make sure you know exactly where and what time the interview is taking place. Obtain a map either from the company or the consultant. Alternatively you can go to www.streetmaps.co.uk enter the post code and print off your own map.
• Go through a 'dummy' interview. List possible questions that the interviewer could ask and go through your answers. Try and keep your answers as clear and concise as possible. For examples, see our list of interview questions.

1st Impressions

• First impressions really do count. Interview suits should be clean and smart.
• Smile and greet your interviewer with a firm handshake - and remember to keep eye contact. Of course none of the above counts for much if you are late!
• Always get to the company 10 minutess before the interview should start. If you are going to be late, phone the company direct or at least call the consultant.

The Interview

• Remember that everything about you is forming an impression. Keep positive and enthusiastic throughout the interview.
• Don't slouch in the chair - this is easy to do if you start to relax in the interview. Instead remember to sit up straight, alert and firmly focused.
• Smile during the interview - it's easy not to, because you may be nervous. But nobody wants to employ someone that looks miserable.
• Finally, remember to project your voice, a lot of people talk quietly at an interview, which gives an impression of nervousness.
• Although it is you being interviewed and therefore expected to do a lot of the talking, it is important to listen as well.
• Your answers should show that you understand what is being asked of you and that you are able to give a clear and informative response.

Remember:

• You have already passed stage 1 - Your CV has got you the interview.

• Stage 2 is convincing the interviewer you are the right person for the job and that you will fit into the company.

Interview questions

• Tell me about yourself.
  Can you sum up what you've been doing since leaving school/college/university?
  What are your technical skills...... How much is theory and how much is hands on?
  What is it that you want to do?
  Why do you want to work in this field (job, company)?
  What do you know about our company?
  Have you visited our web site?
  Why did you study .............. at university?
  What was your favourite course? Why?
  What is more important to you, the salary or the job itself? Which two or three accomplishments have given you the most satisfaction? Why?
  What contributions could you make to this job (department, company)?
  How have you handled a major crisis or problem?
  How do you function under pressure?
  What do you like to do in your spare time?
  Are you flexible to move?
  Why did you go to .............. university?
  Tell me about your best teacher?
  Are you attending any other interviews?
  What are your salary expectations?
  Why are you looking to leave your present job?
  How did you like your last job and why did you leave?
  What are your career goals for the next 5 years? The next 10 years?
  What are your strengths? Weaknesses? If we make an offer, how long do you plan to stay with the company? Are you interested in promotional opportunities?
  How do you work with others?
  Are you a leader........a follower?
  What is your ideal position and career path?
  Do you have any questions?

   Questions to ask the interviewer:

  What are the opportunities in this job?
  To whom would I report?
  Who are the key people I would work with?
  What training do you offer?
  How long has the position been open? Why is it open?
  How will I be evaluated..............what criteria?
  How is the company doing?
  How long has the company been trading?
  What's the company's strategy?