Preparing for an interview

It's normal to feel nervous when you have an interview because you want to do your best. With preparation and practice you can get the better of your nerves and give yourself the best chance of getting the job. Read our guides to see how you can improve your performance.

Do's and don'ts

All interviews are different but there are some things you should always do, and some things you should definitely not do....

A job interview is one of the most drawn-out and intimidating ways of making first impression. However, it’s also your opportunity to get on an employer’s good side, which can give you a distinct edge over even those applicants whose credentials are better than yours. To prepare for a job interview, use these pointers.

An invitation for an interview shows that, on paper, you are the right person required by the organisation for the vacant position. In fact, it is estimated that 80% of candidates are rejected at the application stage so you are really more than three quarters of the way towards getting the job!

Larger organisations will have interviewers who are often personnel professionals, or who are trained and experienced interviewers, so expect the interview to be very structured to obtain the maximum from you. In smaller firms you are more likely to be interviewed by a partner who may not be a trained interviewer. If you are confronted by a 'bad' interviewer you will have to work hard to use the questions as a means of conveying the points you wish to make. It can be a good idea to try to steer the conversation towards the topics you have particular strengths in, highlighting your good points.

There are several different types of interview/questioning techniques: -
The straightforward chronological interview, where you are asked questions around your CV / Application form
Criterion referenced interviews, where you will be asked to give examples of how you meet their criteria e.g., examples of teamwork, negotiating, leadership
The off-the-wall questions where you might be asked some bizarre questions. This is to see if you can think on the spot and how creative/logical you are.
The pressurised interview where your views will be challenged (or even ridiculed) and you might feel like you are being goaded into an argument. If this happens to you do not lose your cool, it is to test how you react under extreme pressure and to see if you can hold your own without starting a fight or being reduced to tears.

And of course, don't overlook the simple things. These may seem like silly reminders, but don't underestimate how important it is to:

- Find out the location and know exactly how to get there, including where to park
- Allow plenty of time to get there -- don't be late
- Find out how they dress, and use this as your guide for grooming yourself
- Print and bring along multiple copies of your resume and any work samples
- Prior to the interview, check in with people that you are planning to list as references
- Gather the contact information of anyone you should send a thank you note to, and do so as soon as possible after your interview

So far away from a test, consider the interview as a courtship or dance. If you're prepared and relaxed, you're more likely to develop enough chemistry to land the job.

Make your luck happen!

James Hughes Tuesday, June 25, 2013