Recruitment agency Euro London
have shared these top ten tips on preparing for interviews:
First impressions count
Always dress professionally. Even if the company has a casual dress
code, interviewees should dress in a smart business suit - it is
always better to be too smart than too casual. Before the
interview, select your outfit and check for stains and creases and
also avoid strong smelling food, drink and perfume before the
meeting.
Timekeeping
NEVER arrive
late to an interview. Always allow extra time for factors like
getting lost or transport delays and enter the building about 10
minutes before the interview is scheduled to start. If arriving
late is inevitable, call your interviewer to explain that you will
be late. Also try, however, not to arrive too early to avoid
disturbing a busy interviewer half an hour before an arranged
meeting.
Do your
research
Researching the company
before the interview and learning as much as possible about its
services, products, customers and competition will give you an edge
in understanding and addressing the company’s needs. Always check
the company website - the more you know about them the stronger
your chance of success will be.
Be prepared
Bring along a small folder containing extra copies of your CV and
some paper to take notes. Do not weigh yourself down with copies of
certificates and references as you can always forward these on
later if required. You should also have a few questions prepared to
ask at the end of the interview.
Show
enthusiasm
First impressions are
very important. A firm handshake, a smile and plenty of eye contact
are essential to demonstrate confidence. All interviewers are
different so adapt your approach according to the interviewer’s
personality whilst remaining professional at all times. Speak
clearly in a confident voice, even though you may feel nervous.
Body language
During the interview sit up straight, maintain regular eye contact
and avoid fidgeting. Too many hand movements will make you appear
nervous and will distract from what you are actually saying.
Listen
This is often
forgotten as candidates are too worried about selling themselves
and talking about their experiences. Make sure you listen carefully
to the questions being asked and never interrupt or talk over the
interviewer.
Answer the question
asked
Candidates often make the
mistake of not actually answering the question they are asked, so
do not feel rushed to answer. Make sure you understand what is
being asked, especially if you are not being interviewed in your
mother tongue, and get further clarification if you are unsure. Try
to avoid vague stories about your background but do give examples
that highlight your successes and uniqueness. Answer honestly and
try to remain positive - if you must give a negative answer try to
follow with a positive statement.
Ask questions
Many interviewees don’t ask questions and miss the opportunity to
find out valuable information and indicate their interest in the
company and job. An interview should be a two way discussion; an
opportunity for you to find out about the company and the position
as well as for the potential employer to assess your suitability
for the role. Try to save some questions for the end of the
interview.