Always ask what type of interview you will be having, there are different types of interview and if you don't ask you are in danger of preparing for the wrong one.
The main ones are:
Research
Always research the company beforehand as you will be able to ask intelligent and pertinent questions during the interview. It is a good idea to mention something you have noticed on their website so that they know you have taken the trouble to research. Always study the job description and go through each element noting details of there you have previous experience.
Smile
It is natural to be nervous during interviews, but do remember to smile.
Switch off mobiles
Always remember to switch off mobile phones before entering an interview. If you do forget and your phone rings during the interview, do not, under any circumstances answer the call. Switch the phone off and apologise to the interviewer for the interruption.
Do not raise salary or benefits issues at first interview
Your recruitment consultant will discuss these with you. Unless the interviewer brings up the subject, this is not a topic for discussion during the preliminary stages.
Plan your journey
Plan your route in advance. If you are in any doubt, ask your consultant. Leave in plenty of time. It is better to arrive early rather than be running late. If you are late the company may refuse to see you and if they do see you it is very very hard to recover from such a bad start.
Shake hands
Always give a firm handshake upon arrival and departure.
Eye Contact
Throughout the interview always look the interviewer(s) in the eye when speaking. Do not let your eyes wander around the room – you will look uninterested.
Grammar
“I done” is ALWAYS wrong, “I did” or “I have done” are the correct versions
“You was” “we was” “they was” – these are ALWAYS wrong
“You were” “we were” “they were” – are the correct versions
Personal Presentation
Professional and smart.
Questions that you may be asked at the interview
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Where do you want to be in five years time?
Why are you leaving your current job?
Why are you interested in joining this organisation?
Why should we choose you?
What are you looking for in your next company or job?
Are you a team player, give examples?
How do you cope under pressure? Give an example.
Have you experience of …. ? If yes, give an example.
Some interviews start with “What do you know about the company and what do you know about the role? It is really important that you can say a few things about each.
Questions you may ask at the interview – prepare 5 or 6
How soon would you like someone to start?
Who would be my direct superior?
When will you be making your decision?
Who will I be working with?
Are there any periods when business peaks?
Are there other skills that may be required in the future?
How is business generally at the moment?
Are there any plans for expansion?
Who are your main competitors?
How did the position arise?
Interview closing
Thank the interviewer. Say that you are interested. For example:
“Thank you for taking the time to see me. I am very interested in the role and look forward to hearing from you when you have made your decision.”
Shake hands, smile and depart.
What next?
It is imperative that you give feedback to your recruitment consultant as soon as possible after the interview. This will ensure that we can pass the information onto the client, who may (and often does) decide upon their next course of action within a 24-hour timeframe.
IF FOR ANY REASON YOU HAVE TO CANCEL OR RESCHEDULE YOUR INTERVIEW, ALWAYS INFORM YOUR CONSULTANT AT THE EARLIEST POSSIBLE MOMENT.