Interview tips

Do your homework

Find out as much as you can about the company before the interview. Look at their website, get a company report, obtain brochures on products if applicable. Ask your PCR Consultant what they know about the company, why the vacancy exists, who will interview you, what is their interview style, what is the format of the interview? You cannot be too well prepared!

Be well groomed
Even if your research has found out that the company has a casual dress code, take care with personal grooming making sure clothes are clean and pressed and shoes shined. If in doubt always wear smart business clothes.

Check your journey
Check your route to the company and always leave plenty of time for the unexpected including traffic jams and delays or cancellations on public transport.

Be prepared
Have your consultant's telephone number with you and call them if you have any problem getting to the interview or are going to be late. It's also a good idea to have extra CVs with you and a notepad and pen. Ask if it is alright for you to take notes.

How to present yourself
Start off by greeting your interviewer with a firm handshake, a smile and good eye contact. If it is a panel interview be sure to make eye contact with each person regularly throughout the interview.

How to answer questions
Concentrate on the questions being asked rather than thinking about your answers. Ask for clarification if you are not sure what you are being asked. Think before you speak and answer questions clearly, succinctly and honestly, giving examples of behaviours or results when appropriate. Read our list of sample questions and prepare your own answers to them.

Questions to ask the interviewer
Do not ask questions you could and should have found the answer to before the interview. Ask questions that are relevant and which refer to the role for which you are being interviewed or the future strategy of the company. Do not ask about salary, holidays or other benefits unless the interviewer brings them up. These you should have already clarified with your agency prior to the interview.

Give feedback before you leave
If you are really keen on the role let the company know. At the end of the interview thank the interviewer/s for their time and tell them that you would be very excited by the opportunity of working in the company and particularly in the role on offer.

Relax
If you are well prepared you can relax and let your real personality shine through. Although your technical skills and experience will be a key factor in the decision, people recruit people they like and a nice personality coupled with good attitude will take you a long way. If you are still nervous about the interview talk to your PCR Consultant who will be able to give you more tips and advice.

Good luck!
You will make your own good luck by not leaving anything to chance and taking the time to prepare thoroughly.