Also in Coming for an interview:
- Be on time and refreshed! Get a good nights sleep. If you are unsure of where to go make a point of visiting/finding the venue prior to interview. Aim to be 5 minutes early.
- Be prepared. Learn about the organisation, the department and the job. Consider asking about arranging a visit prior to the interview.
- Anticipate, write down and practise possible interview questions eg
- What attracts you to the job?
- What are your achievements to date?
- Describe your strengths and weaknesses?
- Explain your abilities in relation to communicate, team working etc?
- What are your likes/dislikes?
- What are your career aspirations?
- Make a good first impression. Be neat and tidy. Dress appropriately for the position.
Get comfortable and relax. Maintain eye contact with the panel. Smile.
- Be confident - but not arrogant. Be professional and enthusiastic - this can put you ahead of your competition.
- Listen carefully to questions. If unclear, ask the interviewer to repeat or rephrase the question. Think for a moment before you start to answer.
- Try to answer as clearly and concisely as possible. Be positive. Give examples of things you've done that you are proud of; how you solved problems and learned and improved from difficult situations. Never make negative comments about previous employers.
- Ask relevant questions when invited. Following the interview, thank the panel and find out when you are likely to hear the outcome.
- If you are unsuccessful ask for constructive feedback. Learn from the experience and don't give up!