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Going to an interview is a nerve-racking time, as so much depends on it - it could kickstart your chosen career. Whether it is an interview for your first job after school or college, after a period of unemployment or after a career break, it’s a big deal and we’re here to help you ensure you’re as prepared as can be.
Our 10-point plan will give you some useful tips to get you started on your interview preparation.
Read and understand the job spec or course details and be clear in your mind how your skills match up. Write them down so that you have notes to refer to as you rehearse some answers.
Using their website and social media accounts (Twitter and LinkedIn are great for this), learn more about the organisation you’re applying to. Understand what its key products are, the sectors they work in and what future plans they have. Check out the news section on their website so you have some up-to-date information on what they are involved in.
Depending on what your interview is for, you can usually predict the kinds of questions you are likely to be asked. Make a list of possible questions and write down your answers – remember you need to ensure you relate your answers to your skills, experience and personal qualities. Think of lots of examples of you highlighting your skills whilst you were at school or college or even from your hobbies. The application form and job spec or course description will help you with this task.
Use the STAR method to structure answers to questions about your skills – the Situation you were in, the Task you had to do, the Action you took and the Result you achieved.
Rehearsing your answers to certain questions can really help on the day itself.
Whilst you’re researching the company and prepping some answers to possible questions, make sure you think of a few questions you can ask them. Better now than face an awkward silence in the interview. A few intelligent questions show the interviewer that you’re interested in them and will show your enthusiasm.
Asking about training and development opportunities is a good question as it shows your long-term thinking and keenness to learn.
Don’t forget to respond to confirm you will be attending the interview. You can also use this opportunity to request any specific requirements such as accessibility.
However, you plan to travel to your interview make sure you know how long it’s going to take and build in a bit extra just in case. The last thing you want is to arrive late and get off to a bad start.
It’s usually best if you don’t leave it until the day of your interview to decide what you’re going to wear.
If you’re not sure what to wear, think smart/formal and usually a suit (and tie for the men). Above all make sure your clothing is clean, well pressed and no rips. Give your trainers a miss too.
As you meet your interviewers don’t forget to smile and appear pleased to be there. Even if you’re feeling nervous, try to appear confident and alert and above all else listen really carefully and think before you answer their questions.
It is perfectly acceptable to take notes into your interview if there are some key things you don’t want to forget, but don’t be tempted to look down at them all the time.
At the end, thank them for their time to show your appreciation.
If you are unsuccessful in your interview, it’s a good idea to ask for feedback. They will usually be happy to give it and it will help you identify the areas that didn’t go very well and where you could improve next time.
Staying positive is really important and having interview practice will mean you’ll be more prepared for the next one.
Online interviews have become the norm over the last 12 months, and there are a few additional tips to take on board:
Our careers advisers are experts in helping young people on to the career ladder and they are available to give you all the latest careers advice.
If you want to give yourself the best chance of getting the job of your dreams, give us a call and we’ll arm you with the tools to succeed: