Go Get Them!

Go Get Them!!

Congratulations, you have been invited to an interview, so now it’s time to prepare and to make the first last impression count.

Preparation begins – ‘To be prepared is half the victory.’

Research – Research as much information as possible about the company. Look at their website - Values and Mission Statements, look at their competitors and their presence on Social Media.

Job Description - Study this prior to your interview. It will tell you exactly what they are looking for so you can relate your personal skills and experience with the JD. Think about your strengths how and where you could add value to their business if you were chosen for the job.

Your CV – This is why you have an interview. Your skills, experience and history is something the Hiring Manager is interested in and they want to see and hear more. Study your CV to familiarize yourself with dates, companies you’ve worked for and roles you have performed. Some people have a long working history and previous roles and responsibilities may be things you’ve forgotten. Refresh your working memory.

Questions - Be prepared to give detailed examples when answering competency based questions. The interviewer could ask you to describe a situation which demonstrates your abilities that will be integral to the role you're interviewing for. You may also be asked technical questions, where the interviewer will be expecting you to show your ability and knowledge around specific areas of the role that require this specific experience.

Always have your questions prepared to ask at the end of the interview. The questions I think are important to ask are; How do I compare to other candidates you have interviewed? Do I lack any skills or experience which would make me unsuccessful for this position? These questions give you the chance to address any doubts the interviewer may have at this stage. At the end of the interview, ask what the next stages are and thank them for their time.

I’m here! The "first impression" is only a seven second window upon first meeting someone.

Punctuality – This is so important. Be at least 10 minutes early for your interview. If you are travelling, give yourself plenty of time to get lost and still turn up early for the interview. If you cannot turn up on time for your interview, can you turn up on time for work?

Appearance – Dress smartly in business attire. Look professional and composed.

Body Language – Being nervous is part of human nature. It’s true, we all get nervous in certain situations and this is perfectly normal. The person interviewing you is also human and could be nervous too. Take a deep breath, compose and introduce yourself confidently and clearly. Studies show that 7% of any message is conveyed through words, 38% through certain vocal elements, and 55% through nonverbal elements (facial expressions, gestures, posture, etc). Don’t forget eye contact!!

The End - ‘ The waiting game’

Your interview is now concluded and you have made your first last impression count. You have answered all questions and have asked a number of your own. You have thanked the interviewer for their time and you can leave the interview feeling confident and happy. Now comes the waiting game. You have been told the next steps and will soon know the outcome. Good Luck!

“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”