"The interview process can be challenging and stressful. Boost your confidence by adhering to our best-practice principles..."
Give yourself the edge – do your research!
Research the company thoroughly: understand its products, services, market position, competitors, and growth plans. The more you know, the stronger your chances of impressing the interviewer and tailoring your answers to their business needs.
Confirm Contact Details
Ensure you have the venue address, the interviewer’s name and title, a contact number, and the correct interview time. This helps you avoid last-minute stress and ensures you can communicate promptly if needed.
Plan Your Journey
Arrive on time, unhurried, and relaxed. Check train times, traffic conditions, and parking availability. Allocate extra time for unexpected delays and inform your recruitment consultant immediately if you anticipate being late
On Arrival
If driving, park correctly and avoid any interruptions. Switch off your mobile phone to prevent distractions. First impressions begin before the interview itself.
Interview Attire
Dress professionally according to the role applied for. Business casual at a minimum; a tie is recommended for men. Even if the workplace is casual, dressing smartly signals professionalism and respect for the process.
Timekeeping
Arrive 15 minutes early to collect your thoughts and complete reception formalities. Good timekeeping shows dependability, commitment, and respect for the interviewer’s schedule.
Be Prepared
Bring multiple copies of your CV, notes on the company, and prepared questions. A notepad can help capture key points, showing genuine interest and allowing you to refer back to them later.
Show Enthusiasm
Demonstrate confidence with a firm handshake, smile, and eye contact. Adapt your approach to the interviewer’s style, maintain a professional tone, and display a genuine interest in the role and organisation.
Body Language
Sit upright, avoid slouching, and maintain appropriate eye contact. Limit fidgeting and excessive hand gestures to stay composed and professional. Your body language should reinforce your verbal responses.
Listen Carefully
Pay attention to the interviewer’s questions and verbal cues. Listening actively ensures you respond appropriately, reduces the risk of missing critical details, and demonstrates respect for the conversation.
Answer the Question Asked
Stay relevant and answer directly. Use specific examples to highlight achievements, skills, and strengths. Be honest, remain positive, and clarify the question if unsure. Avoid long-winded answers that could dilute your message.
Money Talk – Salary and Benefits
Focus first on demonstrating your suitability for the role. Discussing remuneration too early can undermine your impression. Only negotiate salary, benefits, or other terms once your suitability has been established or at the offer stage.
Ask Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the role, company, and industry to demonstrate your interest. Avoid asking about benefits or holiday entitlements too early. Use this opportunity to assess whether the company is the right fit for you.
End on a Positive
Finish with a firm handshake, thank the interviewer, and reiterate your interest and suitability for the role. Politely ask about next steps or the expected timeline for feedback.
Six Common Interview Pitfalls
Lack of preparation – Not researching the company or role.
Poor communication skills – Rambling, mumbling, or overusing jargon.
Aggressive or arrogant behaviour – Avoid overconfidence or dismissive attitudes.
Making excuses for past failings – Take responsibility and focus on learning.
Speaking negatively about previous employers – Maintain professionalism.
Negative body language – Limp handshake, poor eye contact, slouching, or fidgeting can undermine your answers.
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