Interview Techniques and Question – The Basics
1. Prior to attending an interview make sure that you have researched the Company and have found out what it is that they do, who they are and what they stand for. Most companies have a website and this is usually the best place to start. Give yourself plenty of time to research their values – it never fails to impress.
2. Make sure that you know exactly what position you are going for and know how it fits into their organisation. Rec2Rec Search will have discussed the position with you prior to putting you forward. It is essential that you make notes and pointers. If you are in any doubt, ask again.
3. Rec2Rec Search will always send you interview confirmation via email. This will include; interviewer names, titles, address, website details, dates and times. Sometimes interviews have to be arranged at short notice. Make sure that you write down the name of the interviewer(s) prior to attending the interview. Sometimes the mind can go blank at the worst possible times.
4. Make sure that you have made reliable travel arrangements and that you have a good map. This is the one area that can badly let you down. Most smartphones have a Google Maps App. Put the postcode into this prior to departure. Sometimes no matter how well you plan, things can go wrong. Make a note of our telephone number (01484 604604) and take it with you. We may be able to help you out with directions or can call the client to put them in the picture.
5. Make sure that you know the time of the interview. Arrive 10 minutes early this will give you time to relax and will impress the interviewer.
6. Dress for the job you want, not the one you have. Always wear a professional suit and don’t overdo it with jewellery, make-up and scent. Stay away from fashionable items (heavily patterned tights, comedy socks and ties). Ensure that you have appropriate footwear on. Trainers and casual shoes are not advised. An interviewer will make up their mind on whether to employ you based on more than your CV and your capabilities. They are assessing your suitability from a cultural perspective.
7. Don’t smoke or drink alcohol prior to an interview.
8. Try to pre-empt any questions that the interviewer may ask you about your CV and have well thought out answers. Be sure that you can confidently explain any gaps or work experience.
9. At first interview, stay away from contractual / company policy questions such as sickness policy, leave entitlement, policy on leaving early etc. as it may not give the right first impression. All of these questions will have been answered by the end of the entire process.
THE INTERVIEW
1. First impressions are very important. It is said that 90% of interviewers decide the outcome of the interview within the first five minutes so clearly, your initial conduct and appearance are vital. It can be very difficult to recover from a bad first impression whereas the good one will give you the confidence to build on your initial success.
2. A strong handshake while maintaining eye contact is a good start. Keeping eye contact will show that you are interested and alert. A winning smile will also help to create the desired impression
3. Wait to be seated. Sit upright and look interested and maintain good eye contact
4. Do not ramble – keep your answers concise and clear. Always describe your experiences in a positive way. Don’t be overly negative about your present or former employers – even if you do feel quite negative towards them.
5. If you do not understand a question, please ask for clarification
6. Give the interviewer space to talk to prove that you are a good listener as well as a good talker.
7. Prepare yourself to relay your appropriate background and skills accordingly, whilst following the interviewers leads.
8. Never answer questions with a yes or a no. Always try to elaborate but remain concise
9. Don’t exaggerate or lie. You will never secure the position if your interviewer thinks that you are lying.
10. During the interview, if you become unsure about the position do not show it. Remain positive. You may change your mind about the post as more information becomes available throughout the interview.
QUESTIONS THAT YOU MAY LIKE TO ASK
What is the vision for the company?
Why are the company recruiting for this post?
What training do they offer?
Do the company actively encourage employees to undertake further training?
How will my performance be assessed and monitored?
What are the long -term opportunities?
What attributes do they believe will lead to success in the company?
How long has the interviewer been with the company and how have they progressed?
How does the role fit into the department and how does the department fit into the organisation as a whole?
QUESTIONS THAT YOU MAY BE ASKED
Why did you leave/are you leaving your previous/current job?
What formal training have you received?
What were your daily duties?
Who set your KPIs’?
What were your daily/weekly targets (activity and financial)?
What did you achieve against targets set?
What do you wish to gain from your new role?
Average weekly billing/Average timesheet value/Average perm fees
What was your client base?
How many new clients have you converted?
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