Interview Techniques

preparation

Research the company before your interview. This demonstrates your initiative, drive and motivation. Use websites and our information.

Points to consider:

• Size, location and reputation.
• Business philosophy and culture.
• Success the company has had.
• Product range and market.
• Do you know your own CV?
• Do you know where you want to be in 3-5 years?
• Do you understand the role?

first impressions

You never get a second chance to make a first impression!

• Dress smartly and appropriately
• Aim to arrive early enough to
• check yourself over.
• Know the name and the position of the person you are meeting.
• Always be pleasant and polite to the person who greets you.
• Have a copy of your CV and other support material to hand.
• Make a list of your strengths and career objectives.

body language

• Shake hands firmly.
• Wait to be invited to sit down.
• Sit down in a relaxed, open position.
• Do not sit cross legged or fold your arms.
• Make frequent eye contact with your interviewer.
• An occasional nod of the head shows that you are interested and demonstrates you are listening.
• A smile (rather than a grin) is a sign of confidence.
• Be aware of and control any mannerisms you may have.

speech

• Speak slowly and clearly.
• Avoid jargon and abbreviated terms.
• Avoid giving flippant answers.
• Do not use the interviewer’s first name unless invited to do so.
• Listen attentively; make sure you understand a question before trying to answer.
• Use gentle hand movements to aid your communication.
• Avoid repeating phrases such as “OK?”, “you know”, “like” or “um” after each sentence.
• Smile and inject enthusiasm into your voice.
• Vary the tone of your voice.

the interview

Frequently Asked Questions

“Tell me about yourself.”
This is a classic opening question and your answer should include a short profile on yourself and the skills you have. Be prepared, concise, stay relevant and enthusiastic. Have your CV to hand to aid your memory.

“Do you think you may be over-qualified for this job?”
Emphasise the benefits you will bring with you. For example, your experience will give them a faster return on investment. You will not need as much training. They can rely on you to be effective more quickly.

“What is the most important skill you would bring to us?”
By making a list of your strengths beforehand you can identify your appropriate skills and relate them to the interviewer’s needs. Interviewers mainly work from a prepared list of questions, answer by reference to your support material. In this way you can be sure you will give an accurate and considered response.

“Which skills do you feel you need to develop?”

• Know your weaknesses.
• Ensure that these are not vital to the job.
• Ask if they provide training so that you can overcome any weaknesses.

“What do you know about us?”
Show that you have researched the company
and have an insight into its business.

after the interview

Call us as soon as possible after the interview to give your consultant some feedback. Our consultants will ascertain their level of interest in you. If you want the job then email the interviewer to thank them for their time and confirm your interest. We will offer support and guidance as you go onto the next stage.