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Colum Lipsith
Private Practice team
UK & Ireland
Preparation
'Be Prepared'
This is essential. Even though you
might appear to be the best candidate on paper, a lack of preparation
before the interview can let you down. Most interviews will only last
one hour, and you may not get a second chance.
The following guidelines can be seen as the minimum amount of preparation:
1. Make sure that you know the exact time and location of the interview and allow
plenty of time to get there (a 10 minute margin for error is good).
2. Do
you know precisely who will be interviewing you and their job title?
Try and ascertain the format of the interview beforehand and what the
overall interview process will consist of as well as checking the
profile of the relevant interviewer via the firm’s website. Find out as
much as you can regarding the interviewer(s). Google them.
3. Research
the organisation in as much depth as you can. Depending on the role it
might be appropriate to concentrate on their products/services,
competitors, recent business growth and plans for the future.
In most cases, your recruitment consultant should be able to assist. However, you can do your own research through:
The organisation’s website - these are fast becoming the best source of material. Look at press releases to make sure that you are aware of recent events such as acquisitions/disposals and appointments within the company. There may also be a recruitment section and financial information for investors.
Trade publications are another useful source. Keep an eye on the press for information and bear in mind that many publications now have their own websites with archive material, such as feature articles on your area of specialisation or on the organisation itself.
Speaking to anybody you know who works within the organisation to gain an inside track.
Without appearing contrived do try and mention any research you have done during the interview.
4.
Think about the questions that you are likely to be asked at interview,
since some of these can be quite predictable. At the end of this page
are some examples of interview questions. If you can think of the
answers to the ’worst’ five potential questions, this will help ease
any apprehension considerably.
5. First impressions are
vital. So make sure that you are dressed smartly in a business suit
(even if casual/ ’dress down’ is allowed). Don’t forget to polish your
shoes! Shave/comb hair.
6. Know your own CV - it is
amazing how many people fail at interview because they haven’t read
their CV recently. It is important to be able to discuss any aspect of
your CV such as why you studied a particular course at university, or
the part that you played in a particular project/deal (also make sure
that you can discuss any overall business aims). Make sure you remember
any relevant dates or qualifications.
7. Ultimately the
interview is a two way street. As well ensuring that you ’sell’
yourself to best effect, you should also be considering questions for
the interviewer on aspects of the role, such as prospects for career
development and the corporate culture.
