Interviews should be viewed as a positive as this is a great achievement getting so far within the selection process. However I understand it is a daunting thought for some so below are some interview techniques that can help you in the future. Some may feel their current role is in jeopardy during these difficult times or you may just be looking for a new opportunity in your life, We have listed a few tips that can help you prepare for an interview no matter your circumstances.
Nerves – An interview for some can be very daunting, this can create some nerves but it is totally acceptable to get nerves before an interview and you can view this as a positive as it shows you are very interested in the role and want to do your best to impress. The trick is to try not let the nerves hold you down as this can have a real impact on the way the interview goes. Try to let the nerves boost you and remember you are in this great position for a reason and that is because the organisation believe from what they have read from your CV you are capable of filling the role.
Thinking about yourself – As highlighted above nerves play an important part in a persons mind before an interview but this can often be caused by worrying about other things like, ‘what if they don’t like me?’ or ‘will the interviewer be nice?’ These worry’s are taking you away from what is important and that is YOU. Before an interview we would recommend to take some time to think about yourself and ask yourself some important questions you may be asked in the interview. Answering these to the best of your ability will allow you to focus on whats important and if they come up within the interview you know exactly what to say.
- Why do I want this job?
- Why should this organisation select me?
- What are my ambitions?
- What are my strengths and weaknesses?
- What have I gained from my educational / professional qualifications?
- What skills have I gained from my work-related and extracurricular activities?
Research the Organisation – As much as it is important to think about yourself, it is vital you have a think about the company you have applied to work for. Researching the organisation is vital as this shows your interest and how enthusiastic you are about the role and organisation. You may be asked in the interview ‘what do you know about our business?’ and this is when all that relevant research will come into play, The following points will help you
- The size of the business
- There products / services
- The sectors the business works in
- Company’s Values
- People who work for the organisation already – Using LinkedIn Or Similar Sites
Researching the company’s values is great as this allows you to explain why you agree with their values this can give you and the interviewer some common ground as it is something you may both feel strongly about. Researching current employees thorough LinkedIn and similar sites is another great technique to explain to the interviewer why you will fit well into their team and a great way to view the company’s current work like campaigns, achievements ect. These are two great topics that will allow you to express what you can bring to the team and business.
First Impressions – An interview may last for 30 minutes or more but studies have shown that someone forms judgements about you within four minutes of meeting you and that these judgements affect their subsequent impressions. Research shows that first impressions are made up of the following:
55% visual impact ie dress, facial expressions and body language
38% tone of voice;
7% from what you actually say.
All is not lost if you are very nervous at the outset but try to create the best first impression you can – a warm smile and firm handshake will help.
These are four great interview techniques we hope will help you in future ventures. We have a document on our candidates page with more tips that can help you further with interview techniques, If you wish to view these Click Here
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