Attending Interviews_

Helping You Prepare_

The first step in getting an interview is to register with an A1 Consultant. Your Consultant will try to arrange interviews on your behalf straight away so do keep in touch and leave a phone number so that you can be contacted quickly.

If you are successful in getting an interview then you have already gained the interest of the company, an ideal opportunity to show that you are the most suitable candidate for the job. Remember that the employer is also hoping that you are suitable.

Find out about the company such as its products, services and size. Does the company have any competitors?

Your A1 Consultant will give you information about the company and you may do some personal research. The job description will let you know which of your skills and qualifications are relevant to the company. This will help you to prepare specifically for this job.

Interviews follow a similar pattern_

- Pick out your skills or achievements that are directly relevant. Explain any time taken out from employment or education.

Common questions at interview_

- How much do you know about the job and what is of particular interest?

- What skills or experience do you have that make you right for this job?

- Why did you leave your last company and what interests you about this company?

- When have you had an opportunity to show initiative?

- Who and what were you responsible for in your last job?

- Give an example of when you coped well under pressure?

- Are you happy working as part of a team?

- State your achievements?

- What are your long-term goals and how will you achieve them?

- What are your hobbies and interests?

- Are you considering any other jobs?

Your questions at interview_

- Showing you are interested, organised and able to plan ahead is important, make sure you ask the relevant questions.

- First ask questions about the company, the department and the job. An employer will be more impressed if you ask about the salary and benefits later.

- Find out who you will report to, who you will be working with, promotion prospects, what the working hours are and if there are busy periods when you will be expected to work longer hours. Also ask about training opportunities.

- What is the next stage of the process and when you will hear if you have been successful?

- Will there be second or third interviews?

Your A1 Consultant will give you the date, time and location of the interview and write down this information for you.

Allow plenty of time for the journey and aim to arrive at least ten minutes early. If you are held up, phone ahead and let them know.

Do a trial run at getting there if necessary, and don't forget to check timetables or parking availability.

Ask your A1 Consultant who will conduct the interview and whether it will be a panel interview. In a panel interview, answer questions looking from one interviewer to another.

Tips_

Do dress suitably.

Don't overdo makeup, jewellery, perfume or aftershave.

Do not take more than just one bag or briefcase with you.

Do be smart and clean and make sure you are comfortable.

Your A1 Consultant can advise you on what to wear if you are unsure. Wear a slightly different outfit for a second interview.

Do take a copy of your current CV (see our information on CV advice) and all relevant certificates and references.

Do take a notepad and pen with a few questions to ask the interviewer.

Do make sure you are happy with the credentials of the company and if the interview is not held either at the employer's office or A1 Staff Agency, ensure it is in a public place e.g. a hotel.

Do ensure that someone knows where you are being interviewed.

Do shake the interviewer's hand firmly if he/she offers.

Do note whether the interviewer is formal or relaxed and behave accordingly.

Do make eye contact.

Do smile where appropriate.

Don't sit down until you are asked.

Do look and act in a calm and relaxed manner.

Don't smoke or eat even if invited, accept a drink if you want to.

Do listen and concentrate but don't interrupt.

Do show interest and speak slowly and clearly.

Do keep replies clear and to the point.

Do make sure that you understand any questions and ask for clarification if you are unsure.

Don't criticise your current employer, or reveal confidential information about previous employers.

Do find opportunities to sell yourself and relate your skills to the job. An employer is looking for determination, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.

Concentrate on positive words, such as "enjoy" and "enthusiastic".

Do make any questions relevant and show that you have researched the company.

Do say if you haven't had the opportunity to put a point across or to ask a question.

Do say if you are interested in the job and thank the interviewer for seeing you.

After The Interview_

Speak to your A1 Consultant immediately and say whether you are interested in the vacancy or not.

Your consultant will phone the interviewer and pass any response on to you. Your A1 Consultant will do all the negotiations for you if you are successful.

In fact, you can rest assured that you would get the best possible package.