Preparing for an interview
Technical details
- Research the company that is interviewing you. Look at their website and try to learn about the products and/or services they provide. It is very important that you are clear on what their business entails.
- Prepare for the interview beforehand and make sure you can answer tough questions. You need to give answers that will genuinely show the interview panel who you are, what your strengths are, and that you are both aware of and willing to improve on areas of inexperience or weakness. There are many websites and books that give examples of typical interview questions, so consult these to be fully prepared.
- Make sure you know the details regarding the position you are being interviewed for.
- Keep your CV, degree certificates/qualification details, and a current payslip on hand should they require more information or ask questions about your educational background or current position.
- Telephonic interviews: Make sure your cell phone is switched on and that you are available at the arranged time. The line should be clear. Make sure the surrounding area is quiet in order to hear and communicate effectively with the interviewer.
- Online interviews: Make sure the sound and camera work properly before the interview and that there is no background noise or distractions during the interview.
Online interviews: Make sure the sound and camera work properly before the interview and that there is no background noise or distractions during the interview.
Presenting your best side (first impressions last….)
- Telephonic interview: Remember to always answer your phone professionally. You never know who is phoning and if the caller hears an unclear “Hi” or “Hey” they will not be impressed. A simple, clear “Hello, Patrick speaking” will go a long way. This is especially important if you are interested in a scientific sales or marketing position as you could lose a potential job by answering the phone unprofessionally.
- Online interview: Make sure that you are presentable as it is similar to a face-to-face interview. Think carefully about the impression you want to make with the way you dress. What does the way you dress say about you as a potential employee? Whatever you wear, make sure it is clean and neat!
General
- You are very likely going to be nervous so concentrate on not fidgeting or fiddling with your clothes or hair. Don’t chew gum during the interview. (Yes, we’ve had it happen before!).
- Always sit up straight and don’t slouch in an online interview. At a first meeting people see your body language before they hear you speak. The right posture will not only help your own confidence but make you appear composed and confident to an interviewer.
- Don’t babble or talk unnecessarily. Concentrate on listening to the questions and answering each question thoroughly with information that is relevant.
These are just a few tips to focus your mind on your forthcoming interview. There are many useful internet resources and books that can be referred to for interview preparation so make time to consult these.
