Before attending an interview preparation is paramount. Gather some background information on the company, request a company brochure or investigate the company on the internet.
Do not smoke 15 minutes prior to your interview. Whatever your experience of interviews so far in your career, in general, there are certain guidelines.
The importance of making a good first impression cannot be overstated. Ensure that you are well presented, punctual and friendly. A firm handshake and a smile are good openers. Attitude is important, even if you have reservations about attending, be positive. The position may turn out to be exactly what you want. You can always turn down a position, but you can not retrieve an interview if you fail to give the best of yourself.
Never sit back and expect your experience / qualifications alone to secure employment. Personality is at least as important. Be confident, honest and open. It is vital to enjoy the interview as much as possible. If you do, the chance is that the interviewer will too and you will stand a better chance of getting the job, having built up a good rapport. Remember to be confident about experience you have gained, but don't attempt to say that you have more experience than you really have. Know your CV and be prepared to answer questions about your current and previous employers as well as about you as an individual.
Prepare to answer commonly asked questions such as:
Avoid the temptation to ramble and if you don't understand the question ask the interviewer to either re-phrase or repeat the question. If asked a question you don’t know the answer to then just say so. Be aware of your own body language, sit up straight (leaning forward implies interest), smile and use eye contact with all interviewers. Project enthusiasm throughout and 'smile'.
Prepare your questions well in advance, ensuring they are positive, relevant and knowledgeable. Use this time to impress with your preparation and clear up any questions you have. If you are not sure about any parts of the job or about the company – ask!
If you are asked whether you are interested in the position - unless you are very definitely NOT - always answer yes. Try to impress on the interviewer that you have enjoyed your meeting and are interested in taking things further. Thank the interviewer for their time and shake hands.
Do not criticise your current, previous employers or appear unnecessarily confrontational. Be yourself and you will appear confident and relaxed. It is imperative that you prepare questions for your Interviewer it shows you have truly thought about the role and the company. By all means ask around to find out more about a company but be prepared to make your own mind up, do not turn down opportunities on hearsay, find out for yourself. Consider all the opportunities, get more information, weigh up all the pros and cons and think of the long term.
Leicestershire Very competitive
Challenging and busy role working within a growing, forward thinking food service supplier. Excellent team working environment and progression offered.
view vacancy detailsNorthamptonshire £35-40k
Excellent opportunity to make this role your own, great prospects with a secure growing Food Manufacturer!
view vacancy detailsEast Midlands £80k+
Brand new post, an exciting opportunity to contribute to the success of this fabulous, profitable and secure food manufacturer as their No 1!
view vacancy detailsThank you very much for the interest that you've shown in me, and all the help and support that you gave me. Please keep in touch.
Pip Consultancy…..what a refreshing change! A professional efficient and friendly company without who’s involvement I would not have made the decision to join the excellent company I am now with. Thank you Juliette.