Attending an interview can be a daunting task. We at Agenda have designed these guidelines to make the interview process as painless as possible. Often it is difficult to create the impression you would like in an interview as nerves and pressure can create an unnatural and awkward atmosphere. The only way to avoid this sort of scenario is to prepare for your interview thoroughly, so that you feel calm and relaxed on the day. This information offers you a series of suggestions that may just get you through it, and help you perform to the best of your ability. PREPARING FOR THE INTERVIEW Firstly, think about the requirements of the job and employer. Think of the skills and personal attributes they require. These could be: Commitment Reliability Motivation and drive Problem solving Time management Communication and interpersonal skills Team work Initiative Flexibility Self management Willingness to learn Self confidence Think about when you may have demonstrated these skills in the past - at work, school/university or in a social environment. For example you may have demonstrated team work skills on the football pitch, or time management when meeting particular deadlines at work. Be able to provide details of these, and think about why and how they might be relevant for the position you are interested in. Some employers may prefer to ask less direct questions and may try to analyse your answers to try and find out what kind of person you are. These sorts of questions can vary immensely, but could be on the lines of "Who would you want to stranded on a desert island with?", or "Which book you have read has had most influence on your life?". However, many employers may stick with more traditional interview questions, like why you are interested in the position, why they should employ you and what your strengths and weaknesses are. Nearly all employers will also ask you why you want to leave your current position. Have an answer prepared, but be careful not to make negative remarks about your current employer. Before you go... 1. Reread your CV or application form to refresh your memory. 2. Take along a clean copy of your CV, and any samples of your work you may have. 3. Dress smartly even if the organisation with whom you have an interview wears casual clothes. Wear polished shoes and ensure your shirt/blouse is ironed! 4. Make sure you arrange your transportation, and plan your intended route in advance. Bear in mind the fact that trains can be delayed, cars break down and so on. Agenda may be able to provide you with directions, but you may find a map or A-Z useful. 5. Ensure you know the name of the person who is interviewing you, and how to pronounce it. BEFORE & DURING THE INTERVIEW Arrive at your interview on time, or a few minutes early. Try not to be too early - just a few minutes early is about right. Any company questionnaire/application form the company require you to complete should be done neatly, including as much relevant detail as possible. If you have a copy of your CV with you when handing back the questionnaire, offer them a copy of your CV as well. Always shake the interviewer's hand firmly. Always ensure that you look the interviewer in the eye during a conversation. FIRST IMPRESSIONS The first few minutes are crucial. Try to appear relaxed - wait to be asked to sit down. During the interview look alert and interested in what the interviewer is saying. Make the interviewer aware of your strongest points and what benefits can be reaped by the organisation recruiting you. Be clear about the type of work you are seeking and why you would be good at it. Be able to explain what attracts you about a particular type of work. Ask pertinent questions relating to the position available and the organisation. Also try and ascertain why the position is available. These sorts of questions could be prepared in advance. Do not smoke even if you are offered a cigarette and the interviewer smokes. Try and answer all questions with an explanation and not just yes and no. Do not make negative remarks about your current employer. If you feel the interview is going well and feel confident ask the interviewer about salary, bonuses, holidays and so on. Know your salary value in the marketplace - the interviewer may ask you about your salary expectations. Watch how the interviewer reacts to your answers - this will tell you if they are bored, interested, confused and so on. Think carefully about questions before answering - if you can't answer, say so. Don't get flustered trying to think of something to say. A long pause is better than waffle. Smile and be confident and enthusiastic. Stay natural - let your personality show through.