Interview Techniques

Whatever your level of experience at interviews, it is important that you are as well prepared as possible. If you are invited for an interview, follow these guidelines:

Before the Interview

  • Before you go to the interview, think about the kinds of questions you might be asked and plan your answers eg most companies will ask certain standard questions such as why you want the position, what you feel you have to offer, what attracted you to their company, what your strengths and weaknesses are etc.
  • Before you go to the interview, research the company thoroughly so that you know as much as possible about its background, product and services etc.
  • Think about some questions you could ask the interviewer at the end of your interview.
  • Check the location of the interview and your route to avoid being late. Allow plenty of time for travelling and parking.
  • Prepare your interview outfit. Make a good impression by wearing smart, conservative business attire.
  • Think about and prepare any documents which may be good to take with you – a copy of your CV, copies of ID (such as passport, proof of NI number or birth certificate etc) or copies of previous references may all be useful, and will ensure that you look prepared.
  • Before you go into the interview, turn off your mobile phone.

At the Interview

  • When you enter the interview room, smile and shake hands with the interviewer(s).
  • Listen carefully when the interviewer is talking and answer their questions fully yet concisely.
  • Use positive body language – look interested, maintain eye contact and use positive movements such as nodding.
  • Be positive about your previous employments – try not to focus on the negatives of previous roles or criticise previous employers.
  • At the end of your interview, leave the interviewer on a positive note eg. when shaking hands, look them in the eye, thank them for their time and tell them you look forward to hearing any feedback.