Resources

Interview tips

  • Preparation for the interview


    • Know the exact time and location of your interview, allowing time for unforeseen delays
    • Ensure you know the correct spelling, title and pronunciation of the interviewer
    • Research the company’s website before attending the interview so you are fully informed of their products/services, history, financial position, office locations this will also enable you to ask intelligent questions
    • Refresh your memory on your current and past employers
    • Review the position description and selection criteria for the position

  • Presentation


    • Dress appropriately for the industry, err on the side of being conservative to show you take the interview seriously
    • Ensure your personal grooming is impeccable
    • Do not wear too much makeup, jewellery or perfume
    • Do not wear novelty neckties or socks
    • Ensure your shoes are polished

  • Do's in an interview


    • Plan to arrive on time or a few minutes early, late arrival for an interview is inexcusable and immediately puts you at a disadvantage
    • Treat anyone you meet within the company with courtesy and respect, their opinion might be solicited during hiring decisions
    • Offer a firm handshake, make eye contact and have a friendly expression when you are greeted by your interviewer
    • Maintain good eye contact during the interview
    • Exhibit a positive attitude
    • Listen carefully and seek clarification if you do not understand something the interviewer has said
    • Sit still in your seat, maintain good posture and avoid fidgeting or slouching
    • Respond to questions and back up your statements about yourself with specific examples whenever possible
    • Be thorough in your responses, while being concise with your wording
    • Ask for clarification if you do not understand a question
    • Exhibit a positive attitude and behave like someone you would want to work with, the interviewer is evaluating you as a potential co-worker

  • Dont's in an interview


    • Do not be unprepared for an interview
    • Do not be aggressive, overbearing or opinionated in the interview
    • Do not talk over the interviewer
    • Do not show a lack of enthusiasm or interest
    • Do not smoke prior to attending an interview
    • Avoid chewing gum or mints in an interview
    • Avoid irritating habits such as twisting hair, clicking pens, tapping pencils, fidgeting with business cards, foot swirling
    • Avoid making derogatory remarks about current and past employees
    • Do not lie
    • Do not ask about salary, bonuses or holidays in the first interview
    • Do not have your mobile phone switched on

  • Questions that you may get asked


    • Why would you like to work for our company
    • What are your long term goals
    • What style of management gets the best from you
    • What interests you about our products/services
    • What have you learned from your previous positions
    • Which position have you liked the most and why
    • What areas do you feel you can improve on
    • What are your greatest strengths
    • What does team work mean to you
    • How do you like to unwind in your spare time

  • Questions to ask


    • The reason for the position becoming available
    • What is the company culture like
    • What is involved in the induction and training of new staff
    • What is the next step of the interview process

  • Closing the interview


    • If you are interested in the position make the interviewer aware of this
    • If you are offered the position on the spot however would like some time to think it over with family or friends, let the interviewer aware of this and give them a time and date that you will get back to them
    • Thank the interviewer for their time and ensure you offer a firm handshake and a friendly smile

  • After the interview


    • Always call your Consultant after an interview, ideally your Consultant will like to talk to you before talking with the interviewer