Below are some tips that we find help our candidates
to succeed in their interview with potential employers. If you have any
questions, feel free to ask one of our consultants as they want you to
do the best that you can.
1. Research the company and role that you are
applying for
Our clients are impressed by candidates who have taken the time to do
some research and learn about the company for which they are going
for an interview. Take the time to really look around their website
(if they have one) or to read articles that mention them – this
way when you go to the interview you seem somewhat knowledgeable about
the company and what you do. You will also find that being prepared
will also minimize your anxiety.
2. Dress for success
The old adage “you only have one chance to make a first impression” still
hold true today. Dress for the occasion. If you are unsure what to wear,
overdress as you can always make your outfit more casual in the future.
In most cases a business suit is still expected – if you want the
role look professional. Before you to for the meeting, look in the mirror
and ask yourself if the person you see is someone that looks professional
and that you would want to do business with them.
Your body language is also very important. Be sure to shake hands firmly
and maintain eye contact. During the interview, sit up and stay focused.
If your mind starts to wander, it shows.
3. Be confident
Composure in the business world is crucial. And an interview is a good
measurement of how you handle pressure. You don't want to appear too
nervous. At the same time, don't be too relaxed. Maintain an appropriate
level of professionalism without being unapproachable. The best advice
is to be yourself. You're an outgoing, likeable person. Let that come
through in your interview. We're looking for individuals who will thrive
in our team-based environment.
4. Ask questions
In order to know more about the company and role for which you are interviewing,
you will need to ask question. Depending on what you ask, it may also
prove you've done your homework. Before the interview, make sure you've
prepared a list of questions that we may not addressed by the client.
5. Listen
During the interview, this simple action can make all the difference
in the world. Listen closely to the questions the interviewer is asking
you and think about your answers before blurting out a reaction. If
the interviewer gets frustrated, it's a sure sign the candidate has
poor listening skills and will have difficulty interacting with clients
and the press.
6. Get clarification
If you don't understand a question, don't hesitate … ask us to
repeat it. You have a better shot at giving your best answer if you know
exactly what we're asking.
7. Sell yourself
Your qualifications got you in the door but do not mean that you have
the job! Make sure you can speak confidently about any experiences
you've had in the workplace and in the classroom. Have examples of
how you've contributed to an organization or learned something exciting
are of interest to our client. Our clients are obviously interested
in you, so be sure to sell yourself by promoting your skills and abilities.
8. Career Planning
Do not talk about your next promotion. Clients are not interested in
advancing your career. They are interested in doing smart business
and providing their clients with a great product. Ask the interviewer
about the skills that we be required for you to progress in the future
and what steps you can take to achieve this. Be certain to stress that
by developing your skills you can be a better asset to the company
which will be even better for their clients. In their eyes, you become
an asset worth investment.
9. Follow up
It's good etiquette to thank interviewers for their time. Make sure you
get a business card from the person or people that you meet with and
send a letter to each one as soon as possible after the interview.
This will also let us know that you liked what you heard and you want
us to keep you in mind.
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