Interview Preparation
Research
Find out as much as possible about the company and visit their website for further information.
Job description
Read the job description carefully.
Prepare examples from your previous roles to demonstrate your ability for the role.
The Interview
Presentation
Look smart and professional. First impressions count.
Punctuality
Always aim to arrive 10 minutes early, plan your journey well and allow plenty of time. If you are delayed for any reason, call TPP and the company immediately giving the reason and your estimated time of arrival.
Memorise the name of the person / people interviewing you and make sure you have the correct pronunciation.
Do not smoke during this time and switch off your mobile phone.
During the interview
Give a good first impression: Establish eye contact and smile, give a firm handshake and introduce yourself courteously.
Be confident - sell your skills and experience, strengths and personality.
Take time to think about your answers and avoid rushing into a vague reply. Be prepared to back up answers with examples – think about transferable skills and potential as well as previous experience.
Anticipate questions you are likely to be asked and have answers prepared in advance.
Show you are motivated to work and will fit in with the company as a whole and the team in which you will work.
The interviewer will most likely ask if you have any questions at the end of the interview. Always have them written down – not only will this help you remember, but should the client ‘answer’ your questions during their introduction you have still demonstrated you gave the role and organisation some thought.
Maintain eye contact when you are speaking to your interviewers. Speak to all the people in the room rather than just the person asking the question.
Listen
Closing the interview
Let the interviewer know you are interested in the vacancy - tell them you hope to hear from them very soon.
Thank them for taking the time to see you and give you the opportunity to find out more about them and their organisation.
Smile and give a firm handshake.
