Friday, August 7, 2009

Interviews And How To Shine In Them

By Tracey Delaney

Preparation is the key step in interview success. In general, it is not the best candidate who obtains the job, it is the best prepared candidate.

Work out how you will respond to the questions:

It's difficult to precisely predict the questions that will be posed to you in your interview. However, you can shortlist the types of questions that have a high likelihood of coming up in your interview. If you have throughly prepared how you can present the desired elements of your candidacy - work history, skills, achievements, etc - as persuasively as you can, then you will be well placed to succeed in your job interview.

Study the company:

The interview panel are likely to want to know what you understand about the company and its competitors. You have to do your homework in advance and understand the values of the company and the facts about its performance, strengths and weaknesses. Pick up the phone, read some newspapers or industry journals and get on the internet. Make sure that you are able to defend yourself against the charge that you don't really want to work in that company.

Prepare Your Route:

It is astounding how many people turn up late for an interview, because they got lost. Know the address, print out a map and if possible do a trial run so you know exactly how long it will take to get there. Always take the main reception telephone number with you, in case of an emergency, and give yourself plenty of time.

Once the interview itself arrives, make sure you follow the lead of the interviewer. Don't try to use all the examples you have, just keep to the point and ensure your answers are relevant.

An interview isnt all about being reactive. Try to get the interviewer to tell you what skills they are looking for early on and make a mental note of any information that they give you. This way you can tailor your answers accordingly and ensure you say what they want to hear.

Finally, an interview is as much about first impressions as it is about your skills and experiences. Be enthusiastic, positive and professional, give a firm handshake, look the interviewer in the eye and smile!

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