Doing an interview for a new job is probably one of the most nerve wrecking things you will do in your life (up there with the Driving Test). Here are some of the Do’s and Don’ts of interviews. Follow them to secure your ideal job.
…the Do’s
- Research the company and the position you’re applying for.
- Research typical interview questions and practice your answers.
- Be sure to dress appropriately and be neatly groomed. Personal Presentation is critical.
- Make sure you have fresh breath, particularly if you are a smoker.
- Plan to arrive ahead of time. Ideally you should be present on the premises 10 minutes before your interview.
- Always have the company contact details with you, just in case you get delayed.
- Bring all relevant documentation. Present the documents neatly. Ensure you have a few copies of the CV you submitted to this company.
- Greet everyone and be pleasant.
- Throughout the interview maintain good eye contact.
- Be enthusiastic about the job, the company and the industry sector in general.
- Listen carefully to the questions being asked. If you don’t understand the question, ask for further clarification.
- Make sure to highlight your key skills, achievements and talents. Know your CV inside and out.
- Always, answer cliché questions such as “What is your biggest weakness?” honestly and with a follow up that shows you are actively working on your weaknesses.
- Prepare one or two questions to ask about the job, company or the industry.
- Close by indicating that you want the job. Ask what the next steps are in the process.
- Thank the interview panel for their time. Give a good strong handshake.
- When you leave the interview, you should record some details.
….the Don’ts
- Learn off your answers by heart.
- Dress casually or inappropriately. Always wear a suit or smartly.
- Be late. You don’t want to get off to a bad start.
- Arrive Stressed. Take 15 minutes before hand to relax with a coffee in a nearby café. Practice your breathing.
- Bring someone else along with you to interview. Not even in the car. Your spouse, kids and pets are definitely a No No!
- Address your interviewers by first name unless invited to do so.
- Slouch, fidget or yawn during the interview.
- Tell jokes or speak about controversial topics or politics.
- Be cocky. There is a fine line between confidence and over confidence!
- Speak negatively about yourself, your previous employer or a previous work colleague.
- Tell Lies.
- Be afraid to ask for clarification if you don’t understand the question.
- Offer one word answers “yes” and “no”.
- Interrupt the interviewer when they are asking a question. Listen carefully and take your time when answering the question.
- Discuss personal or family problems.
- Bring your mobile phone into the interview room.
- Act desperate.
- Ask questions about salary, benefits, bonuses or holidays. The terms and conditions of the job are usually only discussed with the person who is offered the position.
- Say you have no questions when asked at the end of the interview.
- Call immediately after the interview for feedback.
If you require more support and advice on interview preparation and techniques, please don’t hesitate to contact the Swilly Group. Telephone (074) 9151212 or email info@swillygroup.com to find out more how we can help you.