About getting your interview right...

Maine-Tucker Consultants have a lot to say on this subject (after all we have been helping people with interviews for over twenty years now!).  If you are really finding that you are not getting the response on interview that you had hoped for why not call up our Reception desk and get them to send you our two free wonderful hand-outs called “interview tips” and the other “how to manage your interview”.  They are a must have for every job seeker and packed with invaluable information.

But meanwhile back at the ranch we have had a competition here at Maine-Tucker and listed below are our current top ten interview tips.  Take a look and see if you measure up?  These are not in order of priority but they are top ten!

• Arrive 5-10 mins early.  This avoids you being flustered and gives them the impression you are a good timekeeper.
• Research the company you are going to see.  Competition is fierce right now at the very least make sure you understand their product or service. Have two good questions prepared that will demonstrate your interest in the job and the company.
• No monosyllabic answers:  don’t just say yes or no, be prepared for a competency based interview – this means you will need to demonstrate from your past experiences what you are capable of doing. Back all your answers up with occasions where you have used the skills they seek.
• Positive body language.  Eye contact is vital.  Interviewers often connect dishonesty to lack of eye contact.  Avoid slouching, sitting with your arms crossed (looks defensive) and remember to smile. Be careful not to be seen looking at your watch they may interpret this as boredom or rudeness.  Shake hands firmly when you arrive and on leaving, it gives a professional feel to the interview.
• Be prepared.  You must be able to discuss any aspect of your CV and know it inside out.  For example, be clear regarding explanations for gaps.
• Good presentation.  Sounds basic but make sure clothes are clean, hair brushed, a suit is usually the best bet.  Your presentation is their first impression of you, it needs to have a positive impact. 
• Switch off your mobile.  If you do forget and it rings switch off the phone immediately and apologise to your interviewer.
• No criticism of previous employer.  Never give negative comments during an interview like this it will make you look unprofessional and possibly vindictive.
• Do not raise salary/benefits, early on in the interview unless the interviewer brings up the subject.  It can make you look grasping.
• Focus.  Always appear genuinely interested in the company and the role.  If you appear uninterested you will not get the job.  Even if you feel that you are not interested you never know what other job they may also be recruiting for and if you do a good interview they may recall you for the job of your dreams!

If you are reading this prior to going on a job interview arranged by Maine-Tucker please make sure you talk to your Consultant who will be only too delighted to help you with making the best impression.