Preparing for the interview

The job interview give you the chance to convince your potential new employer that are the right person for the job. You have to convince the interviewer that you know what they are looking for and that you have what it takes to do the job.

The most important aspect of the interview is to make sure that you are well prepared.

Know the company interviewing you

Always research the company who will be interviewing you. Have a look at the company's profile on their website and make sure you know the core business and their objectives.

Be on time for the interview

Make sure you have the correct physical address, contact number and directions to the exact location of your interview. Make sure that you get there in time. Allow yourself some time at the venue to freshen up.

Make sure that you know the name of the contact person

Make sure that you know who to ask for when you arrive for the interview. If you are contacted by telephone, ask who it is and write down the name.

Dress for success

Rather be overdressed for a job interview than under-dressed. Even if employees at the company wear t-shirts to work, make sure that you are smartly dressed. Your outfit should fit well and you should be well groomed.

Practice for your interview

Prepare answers for common interview questions that the interviewer might ask, as well as for more challenging questions that might throw you, such as what are your weaknesses. You can also prepare a brief list of questions to ask the interviewer regarding the role which you are being interviewed for or for further information on the company.

Prepare a self-selling sales pitch

Prepare a thirty second sales pitch about who you are, what makes you unique and what strengths you possess that make you ideal to fill the position.

Body language

Not only are human beings able to communicate verbally, but by non-verbal communication as well. We unconsciously send messages via our body language during a job interview. Based on your posture, handshake, eye contact and movements, hand placement and gestures, job interviewers are able to read more about your personality than you may be aware of.

Relax

Provided that you have been honest and in your CV as well as your cover note, there are no wrong answer that you can give during any job interview you are faced with.

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