How to prepare for an interview

The job interview is an incredibly important step in the recruitment process for both jobseeker, and employer. It’s an opportunity for both sides to see if they can work together and if each other is the right fit.??

As a job seeker, the interview is arguably the most nerve-wracking part of the process and we have therefore put this guide together to help you calm those nerves and give you confidence to put your best foot forward and, hopefully, secure the next step in your career journey.??

??

BEFORE THE INTERVIEW??

In preparing for your interview you want to find out as much information about your potential new employer as possible The more you know about them, the more you can align your own goals and experience with what they are looking for, thereby showing you are a good fit for the role.??

How can you do this? The company’s website is a good place to start. Google and other search engines will bring up what other people and organisations are saying about the company such as media outlets. Social media like Facebook and LinkedIn are also good sources of information. Finally, do you know anyone already working at the company? Maybe they could give you some insight too.??

What are some of the key things to look for? The company’s history, the key people (especially the ones you would be interacting with), its products or services, its mission, vision, and values, its locations, any subsidiaries or parent companies. See if you can find any information about what other people in similar roles to the one you are interviewing for are doing too.??

Prepare for some of the classic interview questions too. This is especially important for anyone feeling a bit unconfident as it can really help calm those nerves. These questions can include:??

• Why this company??
• Why are you leaving your current role??
• What were some key results achieved in your current role??

• How do you approach projects??
• How do you approach difficult conversations??
• What are your career aspirations??
• Do you have any questions? (Don’t say no! You can use this as an opportunity to learn more and to clarify any points – show you have been actively listening)?

Answers you give to these questions should highlight the research you’ve done about the company, and why you would be a good fit for them but most importantly, be honest. Most interviewers will notice if you are not.?

Bonus tip: Think about how you will get to the interview. Will you drive? Make sure you know the closest parking options. Is your interview online? Make sure you are somewhere free from distraction.??

?

DURING THE INTERVIEW??

Especially for those interviewing in person, you have opportunities to sell yourself even before you get into the room with the interviewers. Think about all the people you would interact with. The receptionist, for example. Maybe it goes without saying but make sure you are as polite with them as you would be with your interviewers. They could be reporting back to the decision makers.??

To read more please visit our websites ...