Research the company you are going to, important: they will ask what you know about them.
Buy or borrow a briefcase or folder to take to the interview, you don’t want to turn up with a hand full of papers and car keys as this does not look professional.
Take a pen or pencil and writing pad to take notes at the interview (good impression shows interest and helps you remember key points later).
Always take a copy of your CV incase you need to refer to it.
Remember to take any certificates you hold as they may be asked for.
Get a hair cut (well groomed shows you present yourself well).
Try on those suits in your wardrobe, if they don’t fit or they look shabby, invest in a new one (smartness is the key). Never leave your outfit to the last minute, disasters can happen.
Polish your shoes and focus on your overall appearance and girls - remember to put an extra pair of tights in the car, ladders always happen at the last minute.
Make a note of the interviewer’s name so when you arrive at your destination you can ask by name for exactly who you need to see, this also shows preparation and professionalism.
Make sure that you know where the interview is to be held in advance and that you know exactly how to get there and how long the journey will take (It is a good idea to travel the route a few days before hand).
Always take a mobile if you have one and a contact number of the interviewer, that way if you are going to be delayed you can ring them on the way (But let’s make sure you arrive early as lateness will not give a good impression). Always make sure that before you enter your interview that you turn the mobile off (Interruptions from a mobile will not be highly viewed).
Think about and prepare a list of questions that you may want to ask about the position, at this stage do not ask about the salary.
Below are 5 sample interview questions that you will probably be asked. Think about and prepare some answers, try them out on someone you know.
Interview
Question 1 What do you know about our company?
Orangé Hints Always go into an interview prepared, do your homework. The answers to this question will demonstrate to the employer that you have taken the time and effort to research the company.
Sample Answer I know that this company is considered one of the leading recruitment agency’s in the North of England. I have researched thoroughly your recruitment methods and staff retention, level of commitment and support that you provide to your clients, and have found this to be of exceptional quality. Coming from a background of recruitment for over 5 years, I feel these qualities are very important in client relations. I feel confident that I could contribute further to uphold and escalate your client data base.
Question 2 What are your short and long term goals?
Orangé Hints The interviewer wants you to tell them how you see your future, are your goals realistic within their company.
Sample Answer My long term goal is to become Area Manager within a recruitment industry, thus my application for the position as senior recruitment consultant, I feel that the experience I would gain within this post would greatly assist me in my long term goals. Also it would provide me with the opportunity to prove my value to your company and the opportunity to further my career with yourselves.
Question 3 Do you consider yourself as a team player or do you prefer to work alone?
Orangé Hints Every one wants a team player, but you must also be able to work effectively alone, demonstrate to the interviewer that you can do both.
Sample answer I have always been a team player, I consider that teamwork is an integral part of today’s business, being part of a team as well as part of the company combining views and suggestions, but I am more than efficient and capable of working independently to achieve a goal.
Question 4 What are your strengths? Orangé Hints This is it, your chance to sell yourself, remember market your key relevant skills.
Sample answer I am extremely organised, confident and outgoing, able to communicate on all levels. I am able to work independently relieving pressure and time on my peers. I handle pressure well turning a problem into a learning curve. I am resourceful, have excellent negotiation skills and can close a deal successfully.
Question 5 What are your weaknesses?
Orangé Hints This question is best answered with an answer that can be used as an area of improvement, or as an answer that can be turned round to be a benefit. Make sure that your answer will not jeopardise your chances of getting the job.
Sample Answer My knowledge of some of the latest software needs improvement. In today’s market, computer software changes so quickly, that by the time we have mastered one package the next is out on sale. I have inquired about some courses to upgrade my skills in these areas.
The Interview
Upon arrival check your appearance in a washroom and freshen up.
Check in at reception, remember first impressions start here.
Be aware of your body language, keep composed at all times.
Stand while you wait to be interviewed or get ready to stand to greet the interviewer when they come out to meet you. You do not want the interviewer looking down at you when you first meet.
Your handshake should be firm but not forceful, this shows confidence in yourself. A great handshake and a nice smile get you off on the right foot from the start.
Eye contact and body language is one of the most powerful forms of communication, try to keep eye contact when speaking and use your body language to show your are listening. Again this demonstrates confidence within yourself.
When entering the interview room, wait until you are asked to take a seat.
Take notes as the interview proceeds, you may need to refer back to something later on in the meeting.
During the meeting lean slightly forward this shows interest and enthusiasm. Do not sit ridged with your legs crossed this gives off a negative signal.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions, refer to your pre-interview notes you made before hand.
Remember to use your answers to interview questions, don’t let all that planning go to waste.
If you are interested in the position at the end of the interview, remember to convey your interest. Example: I am very interested in the position available and if offered I would accept. I think the interview went well, is there anything else you would like to ask me?
Don’t be afraid to state those remarks at the end. It does show that you are a genuine candidate and if asked you would accept, the interviewer then knows where he stands.
Give a good handshake at the end of the interview and leave composed, if you smoke wait until you leave the company grounds.
You have now finished the hard part, relax sit back take 5.
You may be contacted, dependant on their time scale within a few days.
If you are applying through Orangé Resources then the company will contact us and we shall contact you immediately to let you know the results.
Congratulations you’re now on the payroll. But don’t worry, if you didn’t get the job this time you will the next, but what good interview practise you had in the meantime. Go and check out the CV Q&A page
