Preparation and Research for an Interview

1. Make sure you have the correct "title and name" of the individual you're to be interviewed by.
2. Plan your journey in advance, take a copy of your route, allow plenty of time to deal with delays, also finding a parking space. Take contact numbers of the interviewer in case of emergencies.
3. Research the company's website, if possible ask for brochures of the company, review back dated issues of recruitment trade magazines. A prospective employer will take into account the amount of effort that candidates have taken to prepare and research the company prior to attending the interview. This allows you to offer a confident meeting.
4. Utilize your contacts to establish the company's historic trading performance and identifying any "mission statements" or vision policies
5. Understand fully the role and job description of the vacancy you are applying for.
6. Carefully consider what questions you may be asked in the interview, i.e.: Achievements and billings.
   Where possible take with you an example of documents that will support your achievements to date.
   
7. Make sure you know your C.V. inside out and take a spare copy of your c.v. to brief yourself before the interview and use as a replacement should your interviewer not have one.
   
8. First impressions do really count. Always dress formally for an interview, Business suits are a must. Hair should be smartly styled and groomed. Jewelry should be minimal. A smart simple brief case should be used to carry documents i.e. C.V. and supporting information.
   
9. Have a prepared list of pertinent questions to ask in the interview and take a Note of the answers they give.

During your interview

• Maintain good eye contact with the interviewer.
• Speak clearly during conversations.
• Always ask for feedback, When the interview has concluded do not miss the opportunity to ask the Interviewer if they have any reservations about your ability to secure the position
• Once you are satisfied that you have over come these and you feel that this is the position and company you aspire to work for
• Ask for the job and keep quiet while they answer
• Shake their hand and thank them for giving you the opportunity to attend the interview.

Examples of Questions to Ask

1. "What are the most enjoyable and the least enjoyable aspects of the role?
2. "You mentioned there will be a lot of account management/cold calling/liaising; what do your most successful people find most satisfying about this part of the role?
3. "What types of training opportunities can you offer?
4. "Is there a chance for promotion in the future?
5. "Can you please tell me how the role relates to the overall structure of the organisation?
6. "How would you describe the work culture here?
7. "In what way is performance measured and reviewed?
8. "What are the most important issues that you think your organisation will face?" or "You have recently introduced a new system/sector/division/team; how will this benefit the organisation?
9. "May I tell you a little more about my particular interest in sales/resourcing/account management." this is an obvious way of getting permission to blow your own trumpet but then that's what this interview is all about?
10. "Do you have any doubts about whether I am suited to this position?" Address any weaknesses the interviewee may think you have. Finally, finish on a high, re-stating why you think you are the right person?