SceneOne Recruitment: Interview tips

In many respects the most nerve-wracking part of getting that new job. Before an interview you can reduce anxiety and boost your confidence by following a few basic steps.

Prepare well

Always prepare well for your interview, find out as much as you can about the company or organisation you are applying to. Most companies have their own website which contains useful background information regarding size, structure, products and services. Other sources of information are as follows:

The company's own marketing department
Chamber of Commerce
Trade or professional bodies
Your recruitment consultant

Getting there

Make sure you have the correct date/time and location. Allow plenty time for travelling/parking etc. Why not find a quiet cafe near the location to allow time to compose yourself, check your notes and of course your appearance.

Questions

Prepare your questions thoroughly, why not note them on a small pad and take them to the interview, this will show the interviewer that you are prepared, keen and thorough.

Be prepared to answer stock interview questions such as:

Why do you wish to leave your current job?
What attracted you to our company?
What appeals to you about the job on offer?
Where do you see yourself in 2 to 5 years?
What's the biggest problem you've faced at work and how did you overcome it?
What's your greatest achievement to date?
What can you bring to our company?
What are your main strengths and weaknesses?

Presenting yourself

When choosing your clothes for the interview wear smart business attire. Never wear anything overly colourful or potentially offensive. Safest options are grey, blue or black suits with white shirt or blouse.

You've probably heard the old cliche 'You have only one chance to make a first impression', it's very true, it can make or break the interview.

Do's and dont's

Do's and don'ts to help you in any interview:

Do smile when you enter the room - it's a great ice-breaker and helps everyone relax
Do keep eye contact and give a good firm handshake
Do focus on the interviewer and concentrate on the questions asked and your answers. If it's a panel interview (2 people or more) always look at and focus on the person speaking at the time
Do ask how you have done and when you may hear of the outcome
Don't chew gum - if you're worried about your breath pop a mint or use a spray prior to entering the building

Panel interviews

Most people hate these sort of interviews and find them a bit of an endurance test. To do well you will need to identify the important figures on the panel and which role each is fulfilling. The chairperson is easy to identify as they will generally make the introductions. You will also need to identify the person whom you will be working for directly - make sure you give them plenty of eye contact.

When you are talking to the panel, remember that you are talking to all of them and not just the person who posed a particular question - your answer has to be the correct one for each panel member! If there is one particular panel member who everyone else seems to agree with, you should make sure you impress him or her.