How to prepare for an Interview
Preparation is the first step for a successful interview!
Preparing before the Interview
Ensure that you have the correct time, address and details of the contact person. It is wise to research transport options if you do not have access to a car. Ensure that you allow yourself more than enough time to arrive calm and relaxed and to find parking if needed. If you find that you are running late ensure you advise the relevant person.
Research the company
It is important to research the position and the company. A consultant will provide you with current information about the position, company, type of interview you will be attending and people conducting the interview. Make sure you read over the job specification so you are fully aware of what the position requires and to gain an understanding of the types of questions the interviewer may ask.
Check the company’s website and find out as much information as you can. You can then demonstrate this knowledge and interest during the interview. Seek additional information that will provide you with a well-rounded appreciation of the company and include information from Social Media.
Presentation
Dress for success! Your first impression will be critical and you will only get one chance to make the first impression. Ensure you are dressed appropriately and feel comfortable.
Non-verbal communication
It is important during an interview that your non-verbal communication mirrors your verbal communication to reflect your interest and enthusiasm. Always maintain good eye contact with the interviewer. Sit up straight facing the interviewer, be attentive and interested. Always have a firm hand-shake as this is further confirmation of your professionalism and confidence.
Finally, don’t forget to smile!
Be prepared for questions
The aim of an interview is to obtain as much information from you as possible in an allocated time frame. The employer will base the decision on a number of areas including skills, knowledge and abilities, personality and cultural fit, attitude, presentation, availability and references. A range of questions will be asked of you to assess as many of these things as possible and as such a typical interview will contain many standard questions, for which you can be prepared.
Here's a list of potential question to practice your answers.
Prepare some questions of your own
This is your opportunity to learn more about the role and the organisation and show how interested you are in the position. It is wise to prepare some questions before hand. You may also think of questions as the interview progresses. Some more common questions may be:
Could you tell me a little bit more about the company?
Could you tell me about the training program?
What is the process following this interview?
Being well prepared before attending an interview will assist you in presenting to the employer as a confident, assured and interested candidate, worthy of definite consideration for the role.
Presentation for the Interview
The first impression is what counts. An interview is a ‘make or break’ situation for even the most experienced interviewee. Studies have shown that it may not always be the person who is most qualified that gets the job, but the person the interviewer relates to the most.
Your appearance will make an immediate impression when meeting people for the first time. Statistically it has been shown that an impression is formed within the first 30 seconds and the impact we make is via:
The way we dress, act and walk through the door (55%)
The quality of our voice, grammar and overall confidence (38%)
What we actually say (7%).
With this information in mind it is easy to see why it is vital that you dress appropriately for an interview. Present in a professional, tidy manner that is appropriate to the environment and culture of the organisation. It is always better to dress up than to dress down – you never get a second chance at a first impression.