How To: Make the Most of an Interview
How To: Make the Most of an Interview
Last Updated (27/04/12) Written by Sinead Smith 27/04/12
There are few things in life more harrowing than the prospect of a job interview. Of course, the lead-up is always ten times more nerve-wracking than the reality but, that knowledge does little to reassure the candidate in the days beforehand.
While nerves are entirely natural and can often be a good thing, spurring the candidate on to put their best foot forward, we have a few tips and tricks that will ensure that you are 100% prepared and able to make the most of the interview.
Knowledge is Power
Know the Company
When we line up an interview for a candidate, we always recommend that they read-up on the company before meeting with them. It is imperative that the candidate knows what the company does and how they operate. Not only will this knowledge avoid any awkward, embarrassed silences during the course of the interview but, it will show those you are meeting with that you are serious about the opportunity and are interested in the workings of the company. Where possible, the candidate can also research the published accounts of the company and use this information to form questions for the interviewers.
Know the Role
Read the job spec thoroughly before the interview. Knowing what is expected for the role in question and how your skills fit in with these expectations will help you convey your suitability for the role. You should also find out from your recruiter what the reporting structure is for the role; who you’ll be reporting into, if you’ll have people reporting into you, whether you’ll be working in a team etc. Knowing the ins and outs of the role ensures that you can tailor your answers to reflect the role and/or the company.
Know Your CV
You should know your CV inside out and back-to-front before meeting with a company. You want to prove to the interviewer that you have the skills and experience required to carry out the role to a high standard. Being ready and able to answer questions on work you’ve done and projects you’ve carried out will give the interviewer a better idea of what you can bring to the company but, will also show that you are confident and take pride in your work.
Know Who You’re Meeting
Prior to your interview, your recruiter should tell you who it is you are meeting with. With the growth of professional networks like LinkedIn, you can almost always find out a little about your interviewer; their career history, whether they are qualified accountants etc., and use this information to relate with them on some level.
Know the Interview Format
Find out from your recruiter whether the interview will be competency-based or more general. A competency-based interview will usually follow the format of “Give us an example of when…” and you can prepare for these by finding out the key competencies for the role and thinking about examples you can give based on your career and experience thus far. We will have a further post on competency-based interviews up soon.
Presentation, Presentation, Presentation
Dress Code
First impressions are incredibly important and you never want to turn up to an interview looking scruffy and unkempt. Even if the company has a relaxed, casual environment, you should always dress professionally for the interview process. The rule of thumb is to play it safe and always air on the side of being overdressed as opposed to underdressed if you are unsure.
Be Confident
Even if you are quaking in your boots walking into the interview, feign an air of confidence. Exuding a quiet confidence in yourself and your abilities will inspire the interviewers to have a similar confidence in you. Remember though, there’s a fine line between confidence and cockiness. Your CV and experience will speak for itself so the interviewers don’t need you to tell them that you’re the best thing since sliced bread!
Enthusiasm is Key
Don’t be afraid to show that you’re interested and excited about the role and the company. There’s nothing worse than hearing that a candidate came across as bored and uninterested and employers will be encouraged by the fact that you have a real enthusiasm for the role and aren’t above showing that.
Body Language
Maintain eye contact at all times, even if it means turning in your seat to directly address the person speaking to you. Similarly, sit at the edge of your seat, leaning forward to the interviewer instead of slumping in the chair with your arms folded. These small traits will help show your confidence and help convey your interest in the role.
And, Finally…
Any Questions?
You will most definitely be asked if you have any questions at the end of the interview so, it’s advisable to have some pre-prepared. This will show that you’ve given the role a lot of thought and are interested to learn more.
Money Matters
While, naturally, you will want the best package, it does not come across well to bring it up in the first interview. Similarly, if you are asked about salary expectations, be diplomatic and, instead of reeling off a figure, explain that your career is more important and you are after the right role. If possible, let your recruiter negotiate on your behalf. They will be well-versed in how to get the best package for you and it will distance you from haggling with your future employer.
Parting Words
As well as thanking them for their time, be sure to reaffirm your interest in the role and let them know you look forward to hearing from them.
By autson.com