How to show employers who you are and what you capable of achieving...
Job interviews can be a harrowing experience. Prepare well, look the part and your confidence will be so high that half the battle will be won before you even step through the door...
Pay attention to clothes and appearance
Wear something conservative, smart and clean. Make sure your hair is freshly washed and your nails are trim. Women should not wear too much make-up or jewellery and men should avoid both. In choosing clothes, disregard the type of establishment the interview is for ? dress just as smartly for a fast-food restaurant as a five-star hotel.
Be sensible on site
Use common sense if you are staying somewhere your interviewer can monitor what you are consumed. It will not help to order water through a meal with them and then drink heavily in the bar afterwards. Also if you pay for alcohol in cash, the staff may report back to the interviewer. Take good mental notes about your stay ? they could be useful pieces of information to bring up in interview.
General questions to plan for:
- What do you know about our company?
- Can you tell us about the job you have now?
- Why do you want to leave?
- Why do you want this job in particular?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Where do you see yourself in five years?
- Do you work well in a team?
- What do you like to do in your spare time?
Industry-specific questions to expect:
- Do you belong to any trade organisations or associations?
- What experience have you had with training staff?
- Do you manage a budget? How well do you keep to it?
- How do you deal unsatisfied customers?
- How have you directly contributed to the revenue in your current business?
Questions to ask
Your questions can say as much as your answers. They can not only show your research but also your interest in the job. For example:
- Why is the job vacant?
- Is the company expanding?
- What kind of team would I have?
- Would I be responsible for a budget? How much?
- How is performance measured?
- What would be the most challenging part of the job?
- What are the company?s future plans? Restructure? Refurbishment?
Following the interview
If you think the interview went well, send a note to say how much you enjoyed the chance to see the business and that you look forward to hearing from them. Offer to supply any further information that may be needed.