You’ve found the perfect job for you, sent over a fantastic CV and application form, and now you’ve been invited for an interview…what do you do to prepare? A well-prepared interview can make the difference between success and failure, so our Recruitment Manager, Anoushka Dawson, here reviews some of the important facts you need to remember.
1). Who are they?
Every company has a website and the majority of them will also have a social media presence, so before your interview do your research. Visit the “About Us” section of their website and have a look through their Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Google Plus, Instagram and Pinterest accounts, if they have them. This will show you great insight into the company so you can not only ensure you would like to work for the company but you can answer any questions you may be asked about your knowledge of their work.
I would recommend you look for how long the company has been operating, what their key objectives are, what the future may hold for them, key achievements in the past etc.
2). Learn the job Specification
You should be given a job specification or description when you apply or have your interview confirmed. This is the time to acquaint yourself with what will be expected of you and for you to prepare examples of when you have done this type of work before. If you haven’t had any work experience before, try and think of examples that are similar, or how you think you would act in those situations.
3). How long does it take to make a first impression?
Seven seconds…that’s it. So make sure you present yourself in the best way possible. Ensure you are approximately 15 minutes early for your interview so plan your journey. Keep your body language open and accepting, making sure you smile and maintain good eye contact with your interviewer. Don’t slouch or fold your arms as this will portray you negatively. Dress professionally and make sure you’re remembered for the right reasons.
4). Don’t get flustered
It’s important to remember that you can take your time when asked a question; it’s much better to take longer and answer well than to rush and not provide enough information. If you have lots of evidence of your experience then bring along a portfolio or scrapbook of your achievements or extra-curricular activities and take a copy of your CV along with you to refer back to and provide should the interviewer wish to see it.
5). Practice makes perfect
There are a series of standard questions you are likely to be asked:
- Why do you wish to leave your current role?
- What do you think you can bring to this role?
- Why should we hire you?
- Tell us about yourself in your own words?
- What would you say your key strengths/weaknesses are?
- Can you give us an example of when you’ve had to deal with a complaint?
Make sure you have rehearsed your answers to these questions so you are well prepared with a response.
6). Ask questions
As well as the interviewer finding out about you, the interview is the opportunity for you to find out about the role and the company to ensure you would enjoy working there. Have a couple of questions prepared:
- I noticed on your website you took part recently in xxx, what was the reason for this?/how did it go?
- Where will the company be in 5 years’ time?
- What training or development opportunities would there be for me to progress?
- What is the key focus for me in this role?
This is not the time however to query the salary or benefits package as this can be done once you’ve been offered the role.
7). Relax!
Last but certainly not least, make sure you relax. Nerves can play a big part in the success of an interview and while it’s understandable to be nervous, the interviewers are not there to trip you up. Take your time and be yourself.
To discuss any of this with Anoushka or the HR team at Hadland Care Group you can email recruitment@topsandaspirecareers.co.uk or visit the Careers page here.
