Preparing for Job Interviews
Preparing for Success
You are certain to be asked specific questions about your potential employer, so make sure you've done your homework on things like their last year's profits and recent product launches.
Nothing is as disappointing as when a candidate oozes enthusiasm and then doesn't even know the most basic facts and figures about a company.
Here are a few places you can find some useful information.
An online search
The company's website is the best place to start. It shows the company as it would like to be seen and the products and services they offer.
You will get a feel for the corporate style, culture and tone of voice. Check out their Annual Report and look for a press or company news page.
Industry sources
It's not just information about the company you need – you should also have good background knowledge of the industry so you can impress the interviewer.
Browse through business publications and websites to see what they are writing about your potential employer and their industry. Have a look on the newsstands at the big magazine retailers - there's an amazing list of publications out there.
You may find back issues of trade publications at university or public libraries, or you might be able to access them online. Some journals are even available for free or by subscription through their own websites.
If you're already in the same industry as your potential employer, it may be possible to discreetly ask colleagues or your suppliers if they know anything about the company you're interested in.
Preparing yourself
This is the bit most people don't spend enough time on, so don't get caught out. Just like when you're going into an exam, feel confident that you can field any question they throw at you, and try to feel as good about yourself as you can. It really does shine through. Here are a few top tips:
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Have a mock interview with a friend based on the common interview questions you're likely to face.
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Be sure you know the time, date and location of the interview and the name of the interviewers.
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Decide how you will get there and when you need to set off to arrive in good time, anticipating any delays. Do a dummy run if necessary.
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If you look good, you tend to feel good too. Avoid any last-minute panic by preparing what you're going to wear the night before.
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Don't go into the interview with lots of baggage - psychological or physical. Take the bare minimum with you so you can concentrate on the interview, and nothing else.
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If you are asked to bring certificates, references etc., get them ready well in advance to avoid having to chase around on the morning of the big day.
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It may sound patronising, but make sure you use the toilet before you go in – you don't want to be bursting to go when you're mid-interview.
Be methodical
Sit down with your CV and make notes, just as if you were preparing for an exam.
Study your work record and what you have achieved. How do you see yourself? What have you done? What ambitions do you have?
Make notes and prepare and rehearse sound bites about yourself. Do this out loud, even if it feels a bit weird.
