The Fuller CV - Interview Preparation

Of the many applicants that will have applied to your dream job, you have been one of the few selected for interview. Now is the time to think about how you prepare for your interview to give yourself the best chance for success, to be selected from the many applicants to the few at interview, to the final one to get the all-important job offer. Here are our top tips to set you up for success:

• Do your homework, not just on what the company does as regards to its products, but where is it going. Most company websites will have sections for investor relations and a newsroom type area which will contain press releases, customer case studies and market research and analysis. Make sure you make some time to seek this information out so that you can talk about it if asked questions and also think about the role you are interviewing for and how this up to date information can be used to help you demonstrate why you are the right candidate for the role.

• Who are you meeting? Most interview confirmations will give you a name and a job title. Take a look at the interviewer profiles on Linked In so that you can learn more about them and their backgrounds. These may be people you will be spending a large amount of your time with so get to know them!

• Plan possible questions and responses. Review the role specification in detail and think about the questions that may be asked to demonstrate the skills and qualities required. Ask the recruiter about the interview structure. Does this company ask competency based questions, what sort of tests will there be? Then prepare accordingly. Many companies will ask for examples based on your past experience to demonstrate the key skills required for the role. Have these well thought out and ready ahead of the meeting.

• What questions will you ask at the interview? What information do you need to know that will help you make your decision as to if this is the right role for you? Are there things that you have read about the company that you would like to know more about? Have you been given information on benefits, career development, next steps and timeframes for the recruitment process, what it is like to work there?

• Do you know where you are going? Check your route and how long it will take you to get there. Have a back-up plan in case of any traffic or travel challenges or disruption on the day. Make sure you have a note of contact telecom information in case of any unplanned items on the day. Arrive in good time – not over-early but to allow yourself a breather whilst you are waiting in Reception ahead of your interview.

• Have all your key documents ready. Does the company need you to bring any information? Take a copy of the job description of the role you are being interviewed for and a copy of your CV. Also handy is a notebook and pen to make a note of any key items you may want to remember or refer to later. Taking notes also shows interest!

• What will you wear? Your appearance at an interview is important, regardless of the role you are being interviewed for. Make sure you are well-groomed and smart. Think about the organisation you are interviewing at and their image and aim to mirror their style. Companies with a more casual dress code can be more tricky to judge but wearing jeans to an interview is not appropriate. Check before hand with the recruiter if you have questions.

• Relax and be yourself. Take a few deep breaths and be confident that you have done all your preparation and you are ready. Good luck!

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Good luck!