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Before the interview
How do you prepare and where do you start once you have an interview appointment? An interview should not be a surprise party.
Do you just take the time, address and contact details of the person you will be meeting with? Or should you do more?
This is your opportunity to create a long-lasting impression. Make sure that this impression is positive by preparing beforehand.
You do not run a marathon without training or preparing.
How to prepare:
1. Before an interview:
Get as much information as you can from the consultant you are dealing with. Learn about the client and the company you are going to be interviewed by. If the consultant cannot give you enough information, phone the company’s reception and ask a few questions. Ask about the company and their products and services. This action will show that you have initiative and will give you a valuable discussion topic at the time of the interview. Find out as much as possible, such as where they are based, how long it will take you to travel there, and whether it is viable for you to drive there from wherever you will be before the interview. Google the company to get as much information as possible about the group.
Know the address and exact location. Phone the company and ask reception or your recruitment consultant for a map and an exact description of how to get there, where to park, and which floor to go to. Some companies have paid-parking facilities; make sure to always keep change on hand.
Be very sure you are on time for your interview. Get there at least ten minutes before to be on the safe side. Do not be late, and do not be too early.
Dress the part of the position you are applying for. If you are seeking a Site Foreman position, do not dress in a suit. Whichever way you dress, your clothes should be clean and neat. If you are a male, ensure you are cleanly shaven
If you take the trouble of going for an interview, then go there with a positive attitude and expect that you will be offered the position. Be confident without being arrogant. Even if during the course of the interview you realize that the specific position is not for you, continue to sell yourself; there may be another opening.
Make sure you know what position you are being interviewed for and who you will be meeting with. Get the person’s name, surname and job title. Make sure you know how many people you are meeting with. If possible, ask the consultant or Human Resources officer what their personalities are like. Knowing what that person is like will help you prepare for your interview more thoroughly.
Learn about the company’s products, size, and international connections. Also know which groups they belong to and their position in the market.
Get as many details as possible on the position you are being interviewed for. What skills are they looking for? What would your responsibilities be? Consider the reporting line, promotional prospects, machinery/equipment, salary, and fringe benefits.
In most cases, your recruitment consultant will brief you on much of this information. If you have access to the internet, look up the company’s website. This is an excellent way of learning more about the company. If you are contacted directly by the company, get the information from Human Resources.
See every interview as an opportunity to learn something new and meet new people to network with. Ensure that you understand the questions fully and correctly and that you then answer them clearly and to the point. Do not rattle on and on.
You should give the interviewer the impression that they are in control.