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Interview Advice

Creating the right impression

Interviews; get them right and they can be a really enjoyable experience where you prove that you've got what it takes — and leave the meeting with the company wanting you for the job. Unfortunately, even good candidates sometimes get interviews wrong. Here are our tips for interview success:

Preparation

• Preparation is the key. Think about what you could be asked and prepare answers. Show you have thought about the role and why you are suited to it.
• Do extensive research about the company, the market and (if possible) the interviewer. Start at the company website — as everyone else will do. But dig deeper, use your initiative and prepare questions that demonstrate the research you have done and show your insight into the business. Bring your notes along and don't be afraid to refer to them.
• The most successful candidates are the ones who have done at least half a day's research pre-interview.
• Check the date, time and location in advance, and plan your journey so you have plenty of time — even if there are delays. If you think you will be late — Inform the interviewer and us as soon as possible.

On the Day

• First impressions count — dress smartly, offer a firm handshake and smile. Sit up straight and maintain a good level of eye contact.
• Try to relax. Your interviewer actually wants to know about you — and wants you to be person they're looking for. This is not supposed to be an interrogation.
• Listen carefully to the questions and take time to think if required. Don't panic if you don't know the answer, take a deep breath and if nothing comes to mind be honest. Don't back yourself into a corner by waffling.
• Before you say something ask yourself: "Is it relevant?"; "Does it demonstrate my suitability for the job?"; "Is it positive?".
• Bring along physical evidence of your work if you feel it would help your case — ask if your interviewer wants to see it first though.
• At the end of the interview ask the interviewer if they have any initial feedback, what the next stage is, thank them for their time and say how interested you are and how you feel you could bring a lot to the position.
• Please always give us a call after your interview with your feedback so we can relay this to our client and understand more about your thoughts and motivations.

This process will help you plan your interview. Please download our Sample Interview Questions for more detailed advice.

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