Interviews

An invitation to an Interview shows that you have captured the interest of the recruiter. Preparing properly will help you to perform well and, hopefully, convert that interest into a job offer.

Pre-Interiew Preparation

When preparing for an interview, think about the questions they might ask:

• Look carefully at the job description, and list evidence from your education, work or other activities, that correspond to it. You can then use these to illustrate you have the skills and experience required.
• Find out as much as you can about the employer; this will help you to answer questions about their business and give a strong explanation of your reasons for wanting to join them.
• Book a practice interview or discuss it with a Careers Consultant during a ‘Quick Query’.

The Interview Itself

During the interview, try to relax and think of it as an opportunity for you to find out more about them, as well as for them to find out about you:

• Listen carefully to the questions; ask for clarification if you are unsure whether you have understood correctly.
• Structure your answers to ensure that the contribution you made or the actions you took come across clearly in any examples you give.
• Be enthusiastic and willing to express your point of view, where appropriate.

Post-Interview

After the interview:

• Reflect on the questions they asked. Were your answers satisfactory, or could you improve on your performance next time?
• If they don't get back to you by the agreed date, or if it has been more than two weeks since the interview, contact them.
• If you were not selected, ask for some feedback.

Helpful Interview resources (available in the Careers Centre)

• '201 Best Questions to Ask on Your Interview' - John Kador, McGraw-Hill
• 'Brilliant Interview' - Ros Jay, Pearson
• 'Competency-Based Interviews' - Robin Kessler, The Career Press
• 'Great Answers to Tough Interview Questions' - Martin John Yate, Kogan Page.