Once you have prepared your CV and sent it out, the waiting game begins for that all-important call! If you’re called for an interview it’s important that you prepare in advance.

Interviews are a crucial part of the job process as this is where your potential employer will meet you for the first time. After all, first impressions are everything!

Pre-Interview

• Firstly, know the job you are applying for, review the job spec and go through it in detail. Have your suitability for the role and relevant experience prepared. This is crucial, they want to hear what you will bring to their company and the role.
• Research the company you will be interviewing with, it’s important that you know as much about them as possible. A common interview question is based around your knowledge of the company – who they are and what they do.
• Know who you are meeting with. Do some research on the interviewer to gain some insight into their role in the company.

The Interview

• Dress to impress! This may sound obvious but presentation is key and can often be a major contributor to overall impression you give to interviewers.
• Punctuality, another obvious one but still an extremely important factor which contributes to the first impression you give of yourself. Know the exact location and arrive 5-10 minutes before the interview.
• Know your CV and experience inside out, the exact dates of employment and the reasons why you left. Employers may tend to jump from different roles in your experience, be prepared for this and if you are slightly confused about the question – ask again. Never answer a question without fully understanding it.
• Engage with the interviewer, ensure to make good eye contact and always be personable. Although of course it is a formal setting, try to be at ease, take a deep breath and try to let the conversation find a natural rhythm.

Interview Questions

• Prepare some questions about the role and company. This will help to display your interest in the position. Ask about the structure of the team, who you will be reporting to, and enquire about a typical day within the team.
• When preparing your answers, include relevant examples from your previous experience. Explain how the skills you have acquired from previous roles can enhance your ability to perform in the role which you are interviewing for.
• Avoid asking about salary, holidays, benefits etc. we will provide you with this information. If asked what your salary expectations are tell them where you are currently and make sure to let them know it is more about the opportunity and the company, as opposed to money.
• Never exaggerate your salary, your new employer will obtain your P60 which will contain all your previous salary details.

Closing the Interview

• Always end the interview on a positive note. This person has taken time out of their busy schedule to meet with you. Always shake their hand upon leaving, and thank them.
• In some cases, potential employers may bring you back in for a second round with either a more senior team member or the person whom you may be reporting into. Go in with the same attitude and professionalism you would with your first interview.

For some more tips and some examples of interview questions, visit the Advice Centre on our website.