Tips on Preparing for an interview
Having been on both side of this scenario as a Recruiter with my previous employers and then as a job seeker, I believe I can provide some tips on what I as a recruiter am looking for and how you can prepare for an interview.
It goes without saying that interviews can be stressful, an experienced recruiter knows this, remember the interview is an opportunity for you to determine if this is your desired position in which you can reach your career goal and for the recruiter ascertain whether you will be a suitable fit for the position.
1. When applying for a position
• Ensure your CV is updated and contains all the relevant information – check your spelling. If you are
applying via a Job portal, ensure you profile is updated and your CV and qualifications are
attached.
• Before applying for a positions ensure your skills set matches the requirements of the position
advertised. Applying for any and all positions in the hope that you will find a job is not only a waste
of your time but may lead to you being disappointed and disheartened as you receive responses
that your application was unsuccessful.
• At all times be honest with regards to your experience and qualification. As recruiters we are
obligated to report candidates who falsify their qualifications. Should you be appointed in a
position and you have been dishonest it could lead to the termination of your contract with the
employer.
2. Before your interview with the Recruiter
• Read the advert carefully and ask the recruiter to provide you with the job description or
specification and work through the requirements of the position you have applied for. This will
enable you to answer job related questions in line with your previous experience during the
interview.
• Do research on interview questions relevant to the position you have applied for. Prepare answers
to the question and practise these – ask a friend to be your sound board.
• Prepare any questions you may have about the company i.e. location, dress code and position so
that you can ask when you are given the opportunity to do so, but keep these short and to the
point.
• Remember, the interview is an opportunity for both you and the recruiter to ascertain whether you
will be a suitable fit for the position.
3. First interview with the Recruiter
• Be on time, more often than not the recruiter is meeting with a few candidates on that day, so allow
for enough time to get to your appointment. Be well groomed and dressed appropriately.
• First impressions really do count, for me personally, a candidate who is punctual, well groomed,
cheerful, makes eye contact and who’s CV speaks to the requirements of the position, stands out
and will be easier to refer to the client.
• Bring a copy of your CV and proof of qualifications with you to the interview.
• Be yourself, relax and remember to bring your best smile.
• Ask the recruiter about the company dress code so that you can dress accordingly if invited for a
second interview.
• Never speak negatively about your previous employer.
4. Prepare for your interview at the Company (do your research)
• Being prepared is key. Go onto the company’s website and social media pages and learn as much
as you can about the company, it’s values and products or services, etc. before your
interview.
• Prepare any questions you may have about the company and position so that you are prepared and
confident about what you want to know when you are given the opportunity to do so. Keep these
short and to the point.
• Get a good night’s sleep the night before the interview.
• Get your outfit ready for the interview i.e. clothes ironed and clean shoes. Be well groomed.
5. The day of the interview with the Company
• Arrive at your interview at least 15 minutes before the time.
• Be yourself, introduce yourself, be enthusiastic and thank the interviewer/s for the opportunity to
be there.
• Relax, easier said than done, but the calmer you are going into the interview the better. Sit up
straight but comfortable, breathe. Be attentive and make eye contact with the interviewer or panel,
it shows confidence.
• If offered anything to drink before the interview, ask for a glass of water, it helps to have a sip of
water to give yourself time to reflect on an answer or if you feel nervous.
• Again, never speak negatively about your previous employer during the interview.
• Listen carefully to the questions. Speak clearly and keep your answers specific to the question.
• When you are asked if you have any question – confidently ask your questions – this also shows you
have done your homework.
• Before you leave, thank the recruiter or panel for meeting with you.
I wish you every success as you explore your new career opportunities.
Kind regards
Charmaine