Top interviewing tips from Lisa Jobson (pictured), director of
talent at Harvey Nash:
- Now you have secured the interview, focus your attention on
getting the job by differentiating yourself from the competition
and leaving no doubt in the interviewer's mind you are the person
they should hire.
- Read the job specification thoroughly, ensuring you have a
clear understanding of the role and responsibilities so you can
directly relate your previous experience to it and the
organisation.
- Researching the company goes without saying. They want to see
evidence that you have done your homework and have genuinely
thought about why you want to work for them. Review the website,
annual report, and check out recent news feeds from relevant trade
and national press to get a feel for market position and any
current challenges - and then importantly have an opinion.
- Talk to people in the organisation to find out what it is like
to work there.
- Who are you going to be meeting? Look them up on LinkedIn and
understand their background and experience.
- Think about the type of questions you are likely to be asked.
Most interviews tend to follow the same pattern and include
questions designed to establish your specific skill set, motivation
and team fit.
- Plan ahead. Get a location map, contact telephone numbers, have
money, a mobile phone if possible, and give yourself additional
time to arrive.
- Look the part. Always check the dress code prior to attending
and get it right. Pay attention to your personal hygiene - and
chaps, always shave for the occasion.
- Enter the room with confidence, offer a positive handshake and
remember to introduce yourself. During the interview, smile and
make eye contact, and be aware of your body language.
- Be specific when describing your experience and never assume
the interviewer has a detailed knowledge of a job role, technology
or process, as terminology and function differ from company to
company.
- Ensure your answers are delivered in the first person, so the
interviewer is in no doubt of the role that you performed.
- Demonstrate the value and benefit you have delivered in your
previous roles to differentiate yourself and give a clear
indication of what you can bring to the table.
- If a question is asked that you cannot demonstrate the
necessary experience for, explain how you would handle the
situation if faced with it.
- Take a notepad with you to make notes, and have some questions
prepared - they may be answered over the course of the meeting, but
you can demonstrate your preparation by having them in front of
you.
- Before you leave the interview, confirm timescales and next
steps, as well as understanding how many other candidates are in
the process - and remember to say thank you.
More top interview tips from Lisa Jobson
