Whether this is
your first job interview or you’ve been to
interviews before, they can be just as daunting either way. Just
getting an interview is a big achievement and will give you
valuable experience. To make sure you have the best chance of
success you need to fully prepare for a job
interview as this will help you to stay calm and focused.
You’ll be up against the best people for the job, but don’t forget
that includes you – you wouldn’t have been invited for the
interview otherwise. We’ve put together some job interview
tips and advice to help you prepare for a job interview
and get through the all important day.
It’s worth remembering that the employer is
probably just as nervous as you are. Don’t forget they’ve got to
see lots of new people and talk about their company as well. The
interview isn’t just there for them to see what you’re like; it’s
your chance to find out what they’re like too.
Preparation
Make a note of the date, time and location of
the interview and plan out how you will get to the interview and
how long the journey will take. Call the company, ask to speak to
the person who invited you for the interview and let them know
you’re going. If you can’t make the time or date of the interview
or if you’ve changed your mind, you’ll need to let them know.
The next step is to start researching about
the company. Most companies have a website so this is a good place
to start – try the ‘about us’ or ‘meet the team’ section of the
website to find out more about the company. You can also check out
your local library to see if there is any information about the
company there and ask and your family and friends if they have any
experience of the company. Make sure you know who they are, what
they do and are aware of any recent news about the company.
What will you say?
You’ll never know in advance what exactly an
interviewer will ask you but there’s a strong chance they’ll want
to talk about you, what you’re good at and your experiences. When
you prepare for a job interview jot some notes
down and take them with you as a reminder. Asking a friend or one
of the Working Links consultants to help you prepare a list of
pointers will help make sure you have a successful job
interview as they will be able to help you focus on your
strengths.
Any questions?
Most employers will ask if you have any
questions you’d like to ask them. It’s important to have a few
ready as it shows you’re interested and you’ve thought about the
interview. Think about what you want to know about the job or the
company that you don’t already know. Write the questions down and
make sure they’re positive.
If you want some more interview tips
and advice, register your email address and we’ll send you
an interview preparation pack to help you have a successful
job interview. Or you can call us free on 0800 917
9262 to meet one of our consultants.