Interview techniques

So, putting all of that effort into your CV/résumé has worked and you’ve been invited for an interview. Well done!

Preparation is absolutely vital, so find out as much as you possibly can about the company and the job before you attend the interview. Prepare some relevant questions and show a real and genuine interest in the organisation and the role.

Skills: think about how your skills match the job description that you’ve been given and highlight these at the interview. Give the interviewer precise and detailed answers about your previous experience and use examples to show why you are suitable for the job.

Punctuality is crucial: start off early and do a dummy run the day before if you’re unsure of the route.

Appearances count: your Spring Group consultant will be happy to give you advice on the company’s dress code, but remember that it is more appropriate to be smart than casual at an interview.

Be confident: be polite, shake hands, smile and introduce yourself. Keep an eye on your body language. Sit upright, look interested and maintain eye contact.

Be natural: be yourself and remain positive.

Be thorough: ask as many questions about the job as you need to. After all, you need to understand how your skills and experience match their requirements.

Give feedback: we’ll want to know how you got on, so call and let us know how you think it went.

What sort of questions am I likely to be asked?

These are some common questions that you might be asked at interview:

What do you know about the company?
Why do you want to leave your current company?
Why are you interested in this position?
What skills could you bring to the job?
What do you like doing best or least in your current role?
What do you consider to be your strengths and weaknesses?
What is your greatest achievement?
Do you prefer to work in a team or alone?
Can you work under pressure? Tell me about an occasion where you had to do so.
How would you handle difficult customers?
How do you like to be managed?
Where would you like to be in five years?
What salary are you looking for?
What are your leisure interests?
Why should I employ you?

What sort of questions should I be asking?

It’s important not just to look interested, but to be interested. You will be given lots of information on the day, so listen carefully and ask any questions that you feel are pertinent. Asking too many questions is better than asking none at all!

What is the most important aspect of the job?
Who will I be working for and with?
How many people are there in the department?
Are there any periods when business peaks? What effect will this have on the job, if any?
Are there any training schemes from which I may benefit?
What are the promotional prospects?
What is the salary and are there any benefits?
How frequently is the salary reviewed?