So you have secured yourself that all important job interview, congratulations…..you are now half way there!
The next step is to ensure you are on top of your game and ahead of your competition! So here are some tips to help you on your way;
1. The Address & Contact details
This should be an obvious one, but you would be surprised at the number of people that turn up to an interview not knowing who they are meeting with.
Or how many people get lost because they didn’t bring the address with them.
Do not let this be the first impression you create!
Things to avoid: Pronouncing your interviewers name incorrectly, arriving late.
2. Your Impeccable Grooming
On the topic of First Impressions, you never get a second chance to make a good first impression and like it or not, your appearance is the first thing people will notice about you. Polished presentation shows you are taking the opportunity seriously.
Do a bit of research on the company and work environment and dress accordingly – it is always better to be over dressed than under dressed.
Things to avoid: Skirts that are too short or too tight, too much cleavage, wear your underwear on the inside of your clothes, shaven or neatly trimmed facial hair, no singles, scuffed shoes and bad personal body odour and smoking or taking drugs or alcohol before an interview.
3. Your Confidence
Your confidence and attitude play a BIG part in your success at an interview.
If you present as confident in your abilities with a positive attitude, then your interviewer will be confident in your ability to perform the job as well.
Things to avoid: Arrogance, badmouthing your previous employer, lying, focusing excessively on the remuneration, over talking, one word answers.
4. Your Research
I cannot emphasise enough how important it is to do your research on the company, the interviewer and the position BEFORE arriving at your interview. You want to be seen as a professional who has initiative.
Therefore it is a must to research the company and their philosophy and product range prior to interview.
This will not only enhance your performance & increase your creditability at the interview but also for your own benefit, going to an interview is a two-way street. Not only is an employer assessing your suitability, this is your chance to see if this company is right for you.
By doing your research you may also come across questions you have on the role or brand or product. Therefore this is a good chance to take some notes on what you might like to address at the interview. By doing this you will appear committed and enthusiastic to your potential employer.
Things to avoid: Nothing…..you can never do enough preparation!
5. Portfolio of your work samples / Resume
It is a good idea to take a copy of your resume complete with Referees contact details (ensure you have notified them prior).
Depending on your position, you may like to take some samples of your previous work.
Things to avoid: Taking too many samples- keep it short & sweet, a resume that is too long.
6. Your Honesty
Always stay honest with your answers. You can guarantee that through the reference checking process, a lie will be caught out.
Employers appreciate honesty, they understand not everyone is perfect, we all make mistakes from time to time and an employer will think more of you if you can be honest.
Things to avoid: Badmouthing your employer or manager, altering job start and finish dates to eliminate gaps in your resume.
Preparation is the key to success!
