Preparing yourself

How to win at interview

Be prepared for your interview and do as much research as you can about the company – websites particularly are a great source of information. Alternatively, visit your local library for a wealth of information about your area. Here are some tips that will make a good impression. Failing all of this, contact us!

Useful Tips

  • Aim to be 5 – 10 minutes early as lateness is definitely not acceptable
  • Dress smartly and tidily, first impressions certainly count hugely
  • Give a firm handshake and use eye contact
  • Ask questions, show you are interested in the company and job
  • Think about what you would expect from an employer and have answers to questions ready. In other words, know what you’re good at, why are you applying for the job, why should they employ you as opposed to someone else?
  • Think of the interview as a two way meeting, it’s important to get some of the things that you want as much as giving what the employer wants – bring it up at the meeting!
  • Listen well and reassure your understanding by repeating it back
  • If at the end of the interview, you want the job, tell the interviewer!! Be confident to say why you want it and why they should employ you.
  • Enjoy yourself and good luck!
  • It might be helpful to know they type of questions employers are likely to ask – we hope the following is useful to you

Typical Interviewer Questions

  • Would you kindly tell me about yourself?
  • What are your achievements to date?
  • What do you like about your present job/boss?
  • What do you dislike about your present job/boss?
  • What is the most difficult situation you have faced in the workplace and how did you handle it?
  • What are your strengths?
  • What are your weaknesses and what do you do about them?
  • Why do you wish to leave your present job?
  • Why do you want to work for us?
  • How would your workmates describe you?
  • Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
  • Why should we employ you instead of the other interested candidates?

At the end of the meeting, your interviewer is likely to ask you if you have any questions. This is an ideal opportunity for you, so be prepared. Here are sample questions you might like to ask which will show your interest in the company and job. Incidentally, it is a good idea to keep questions about salary, hours of work and overall package to the end of the interview.

Example Interviewee Questions

  • What training will be provided?
  • What is the history of the company?
  • What expansion plans has the company?
  • What are the company’s achievements?
  • What opportunities will there be for progression?
  • How many people are you interviewing?
  • When will I hear if I am successful?
  • Do you have any reservations about employing me?

These questions are not exhaustive but will give you ideas of how to plan for your interview