In general terms, a prospective employer is looking for loyalty, ability and suitability (ie cultural fit), determination, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
- Dress smartly and conservatively, suits or equivalent (no leather or denim garments), neat clean nails and smart, clean shoes. It is carrier, a more casual look might be appropriate – but not TOO casual.
- Leave for the interview in good time. If you are late, do apologise and contact us or them to let them know of your delay. When you meet your interviewer shake hands firmly, look them in the eye and smile.
- Do answer questions, concisely, honestly and avoid getting side tracked.
- If you are asked what you about the company or job, do not say ‘nothing’, a short sentence will suffice. It is useful to always research the company before attending an interview with them. Most companies are on the Internet – it impresses interviewers if you have done your ‘homework’!
During the Interview
- 80% of interviews are decided in the first five minutes. 80% of communication is body language.
- Do not put your handbag, briefcase, or elbows on the interviewer’s desk.
- Do not slouch, sit on the edge of your seat, shuffle your feet, or tap your fingers.
- Do not interrupt, but do not be afraid to ask the interviewer to repeat or clarify a question if you do not understand it.
- Do not criticise former employers/employees or anyone else.
- Do explain your reason for changing jobs in a positive way.
- Do smile
- Do look the interviewer in the eye.
- Do use the interviewer’s name.
- Do ask questions (if in doubt ask why the last person left, how long has the company been established, how many offices do they have?). If your mind goes blank, say ‘You have covered everything, but if I think of anything afterwards, may I ask through the agency?’.
- One area to avoid is that of promotion; most companies are interested in filling the vacancy in hand first.
After the interview
- As soon as the interview is over, contact your consultant with your feedback. This will help when we contact the interviewer.
- Any interview is valuable experience. Use it to your advantage by going over the interview with your consultant to see if there was anything you would have liked to have handled better, or anything you forgot to say that you want conveyed to the interviewer.
Finally
Be confident in yourself. We are! If you are going forward to shortlist we have assessed your attributes and understood your requirements and think that they match our clients needs. We have also discussed with you the job you are being interviewed for. If we did not think you were suitable for the position, we would not have wasted your time or our clients time by sending you for an interview.