Career Planning

Interviews can be a nerve wracking but exciting opportunity to show an employer why they should employ you. Making sure you are prepared for an interview can help make the process easier. Below are some tips and advice on how to get ready for an interview.

The best ways to prepare for an interview

1. Research: Both the company and the Job you have applied for.

2. Know where you are going: Plan your route beforehand so that you don't get lost resulting in you turning up late. 

3. Practice: Use practice questions to learn how to structure your answers, use the STAR format (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and write them down and if it helps and even use colours when doing so as this can help you to remember.

4.Questions: it's important to ask your own questions during the interview. Think about what you would like to know about the company and the job role. Write them down and take them to the interview with you. Make sure you prepare a few questions as it may be the case that the interview covers some of these before you can ask them. 

Here are some Top Tips for your interview.

Dress Accordingly: Check the employers dress code and plan your outfit around this.

Arrive Early: It is best to arrive 10 - 15 minutes before the interview is due to start. This shows that you are punctual, but also gives you time to take in your surroundings and understand the workplace dynamic. 

No Mobiles: Make sure you turn off your mobile phone or switch it to silent. 

Remember to be polite and have good body language: Sit or stand tall with shoulder back, do not lean or cross your arms. Always smile and keep eye contact this shows confidence. 

Be Human: Take time at the beginning of the interview for casual pleasantries to show your social side. Be yourself and your individual personality. 

Don't Panic: Don't worry if you don't know an answer that ok. You can come back to a question later so you have more time to think. 

Below are some example questions, that an employer is likely to ask 

• Can you tell me about yourself?
• Why did you leave your last Job?
• What do you know about the company?
• Why do you want to work for the company?
• Where do you see yourself in five years time? 
• Why should we hire you?

Below are some questions that you could ask an employer. 

• What are the day-to-day responsibilities of someone in this job role?
• Is there opportunity for progression within the company? 
• What is your favourite part about working for the company? 
• What is the most challenging part of the role?
•  What are the next steps in the interview process?