Do you have a job interview coming up and you are not sure how to prepare for this very important meeting? Keep the grey hair at bay and follow these tips that will prove to be extremely useful when it comes to preparing for a job interview.
Research the position
It’s extremely important that you are aware of what the position entails before the interview. Often, a recruitment company will interview you before hand, and provide you with details of the company and what the position will entail. Make a list of the basic skills and industry knowledge they are seeking. If you found the post online, analyse it thoroughly, and prepare possible answers relating to the tasks involved.
Research the Company
You will also be expected to research the company’s features and attributes. This includes their long-term goals and objectives, the services they offer and any Corporate Social Responsibility accomplishments. If you are unsure about who will be leading the interview, it is recommended researching the backgrounds of the Managers and Directors.
Practice Responding to Common Interview Questions
Perform a role play with family or friends. This will give you the additional confidence you may require during the interview process. Also run-through your CV to ensure you are clear about the timeframe of previous positions or courses you may have studied.
Dress Professionally and Appropriately
Dressing appropriately is one of the most important influences of a successful interview, and as we know, first impressions are lasting impressions. Be well-prepared, set-out your attire the evening before your interview.
Tips for Women
- Wear a suit preferably. Suit pants and a jacket are best, if you are wearing a skirt, it should not be above the knee. Avoid leggings.
- Your blouse should have a conservative neckline and long or with ¾ sleeves
- Your shoes should match your suit
- Wear professional, looking make-up and minimal perfume
- Have neatly manicured nails
Tips for Men
- Men should always wear a suit. Avoid less than 45% wool.
- Shirts should be a cotton blend in white or solid colours preferably. White shirts are best as they give the impression the wearer is intelligent, honest, and successful. (Never wear short sleeves).
- No facial hair and trim fingernails.
- A conservative haircut is preferable.
- Remove all facial piercings or earrings.
What to Carry
- A copy of your ID, CV and Qualifications
- A list of References
- Accurate directions
- A list of relevant points to remember
- A list of questions you would like to ask the Interviewer
- Any relevant portfolio work
What to Avoid
- Arriving late
- Chewing gum
- Bringing food or drink into the interview
- Talking too much and sharing too many personal details
- Getting distracted and missing any questions. If you are unable to answer, ask the interviewer to revert to the tricky question at a later stage.
