Job Interviews

Independent research shows that interviewers make a decision as to whether or not they want to employ candidates within 30 - 60 seconds of meeting them.

That might not seem fair and perhaps you think it shouldn't be that way but, just like when you meet someone socially for the first time, it’s based on:-

• How you’re dressed

• How you carry yourself

• How you talk

There are other factors, but these are the killers in the first 30 seconds. Click here for Body Language tips.

The main thing to remember during an interview is that in order to turn a job down, you first need to be offered it.

Enthusiasm is key.

• Things you must do prior to the interview 

1.       Research the company.

      Not too much; nobody likes a know it all but you need to show that you're taking the  interview and your application seriously.

2.       Re-read your CV.

Why did you make your career moves? If you bluster about this in an interview you might as well get up and walk out.

3.       Have an answer for the following because they're likely to get asked!:-

• Your biggest strength

• Your biggest weakness

• Tell me about yourself.

• Why did you leave your old job?

• Why do you want to work for us?

• What did you like about your old job?

• What kind of salary are you looking for?

• What do you know about our company?

• Why should we hire you?

• What did you think of your old boss?

• What are your long term goals?

• Do you mind working long hours?

• You seem overqualified (or under qualified).

4.       Prepare a list of questions

Interviewers always ask you at the end of an interview “is there anything you’d like to ask us?” Most people will say “No, I think you’ve covered everything”. Rubbish! You just want to get out of there!

Write down on a piece of paper everything your wife/husband/girlfriend/boyfriend/mates will ask you afterwards, take it out in the interview and make sure you get an answer.

Not only will this help you, but it will impress the interviewer that you have prepared for the interview.

I say again...

Enthusiasm is key. Nothing else matters as much!!!

Dress Codes

You cannot underestimate the importance of how you are dressed at interview. Your basic aim is to not give them a reason to dislike you on the basis of how you are dressed.

In the main be conservative. Conservative is always best in an interview situation, regardless of the dress code at the prospective employers.

Basic rules:-

Men

• Wear a dark coloured plain suit.

• Long sleeved shirt - never wear short sleeves.

• Conservative tie.

• Black (polished) shoes & dark plain socks.

• Try and get your hair cut a few days beforehand.

• Do not wear any earrings or any other jewellery, apart from a watch and wedding/signet ring.   

Women

• Wear conservative plain shoes.

• Use a briefcase or large bag for any papers

• Not too much make up or perfume.

• Do not use a lot of jewellery.

• One set of earrings only.

For more in-depth interview advice click here>>>>> Job Interviews