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Career Basics Lesson #3 – The Interview
There is no way of avoiding interviews - no reputable company is going to give you a job without meeting you, so you might as well get on with it. To ensure that an interview goes as smoothly as possible, simply get these steps right and everything else should fall into place.
1. Know the company
If you are serious about getting this job, you should know as much as possible about the company. This information is easily obtained via word of mouse and make time to visit a branch to get an idea of how the company operates on the ground. The retail news pages on The Appointment's website are a good source of information.
2. Know your CV
You should also know your CV like the back of your hand. Your interviewer will use this as a guide and will ask you about anything that stands out, such as gaps in your career history or a certain project you have mentioned.
3. Prepare for questions
Many interview questions are posed to test certain competencies. These could include a situation when you were challenged, when you had to lead a team to a successful goal, when you had to resolve a problem, when you made a mistake and what steps you took to amend it. The interviewer will probably also ask you about your strengths and weaknesses so having a couple of answers to hand is vital.
4. Plan your route
The last stage of your preparation is to know exactly how to get to your interview. Look up the route, whether it is by bus, train, car or tube, and make sure that you have left enough time to get there without rushing. Make sure you know the exact location of the interview venue and if you need to, take a map or a print out of the area.
5. Dress to impress
Make sure that your outfit is appropriate to the circumstances. If you have not been given a dress code, then formal business dress is advisable, particularly for senior or office-based roles - jeans and trainers are never acceptable.
6. Perfect timing
On the day, punctuality should be the most important thought in your head. Being late is simply not an option and the more careful applicant will not only have their route to the interview planned out, but also a backup route ready. Make sure that you are polite and courteous to everyone you meet at the venue. If you are rude, it will always be fed back to your interviewer.
7. First impressions
When you are called in, make sure your handshake is firm and that you look your interviewer in the eye. Remember why you're here and try to remain calm and quietly confident.
8. PMA
Remain positive! Don't moan about the journey in, no matter how bad and likewise, don't ever criticise your current employer. Smile from time to time, look interested in the questions you are being asked and show them that you're here to move your career forward in a positive way. Your preparation will help you to answer any questions they put to you and answer in a calm, considered manner.
