Tips for an interview

Your CV has received great feedback and finally been invited to an interview. However it’s not time to celebrate just yet; there’s still a lot of work to be done before you land the job.

PREPARATION

• Find out as much information as you can about the company you are visiting from your consultant.
• Read up about the company on the internet / press / financial magazines etc.
• Ensure you have all the necessary information about who is interviewing you – address, directions and
• Telephone number of the company as well as the name of the interviewer.

TIME

• Give yourself plenty of time to get to the interview (make allowance for possible delays or losing your way).
• Never, Never, Never arrive late for your interview unless you have contacted the company to advise them about your situation.
• Generally speaking, try to arrive at the company’s reception 10 to 15 minutes before your interview.

DRESS AND APPEARANCE

• Always dress smartly. Preferably business attire – a jacket and tie, clean shoes, business skirt and blouse or smart slacks/ dress.
• No jeans, tee shirts, open neck shirts or takkies.
• Hair should be neat and combed.

THE INTRODUCTION

• Remember that the initial two minutes of any interview are the most important.
• First impressions last.
• This is the time when most managers make their hiring decisions.
• Rather being too formal than coming across too casually.
• Use Mr. and Mrs. rather than first names in most cases until the interviewer suggests
• you use their first name.
• Introduce yourself in a clear voice, don’t mumble.
• Make sure you catch and remember the name of the person/s interviewing you.

THE INTERVIEW

• Present yourself professionally and politely.
• Sit upright with a good, relaxed posture. Don’t slouch or lean on the desk/ table.
• Answer all questions honestly. Never lie or guess if you don’t know an answer to a question.
• Answer all questions in as much detail as you think is necessary but make sure you don’t waffle or bore your interviewer.
• Do not speak negatively about your previous employers. Companies want to hire problem solvers who overcome tough situations. If you’re feeling discouraged about your current job, focus on talking about what you’ve gained from that experience and what you want to do next.

Success is simple. Do what’s right, the right way, at the right time.– Arnold H. Glasgow