Interview preparation checklistEnsure you're well prepared for that all important interview with our extensive Interview Preparation Checklist.
· Locate where your interview will be held and take a drive or walk to where the interview will be held to make sure that you get the correct place. Also this give you an insight into how long it will take you to get to the interview. It’s a huge “no-no” to turn up late – better to be prepared.
· Try on your clothes prior to the interview and have someone double check that they are appropriate. It’s also a great idea to research how other staff members at the business you are applying for the job at. See if you can take a leaf out of their book. Dress in a similar way. That way, you already look the part.
· Have you made sure that your clothes are cleaned and mended at least two days before the interview?
· Do you have copies of all your qualifications and academic/course transcripts in case the employer asks for them?
· Are you wearing too much jewellery, perfume or makeup? When makeup is subjected to fluorescent lighting it may look harsh if you have too much on. Always remember – less is best!
· Don’t smoke before an interview. It smells terrible – first impressions count.
· When you arrive for your interview, ensure you check in with reception letting someone know you have arrived.
· Make sure you ALWAYS arrive for an interview at least 15 minutes earlier than required. Allow for traffic delays, if you know that it will be busy, allocate extra time.
1. ARRIVE EARLY
· Make sure you tell reception that you are there for
your appointment.
· Give yourself time to gather your thoughts
· Check your appearance
· Quickly scan through your resume
· Ask the receptionist who will be interviewing you and
make a note of the interviewer/s name/s.
2. ENTERING THE INTERVIEW
· Greet the interview panel one by one and SMILE!
· Offer to shake hands if possible
· Watch the way you sit. Place your personal belongings
next to you and place both feet on the floor
· Try not to cross your arms
· Keep your hands folded on your lap if you tend to
become nervous in an interview. This will help hide any
nerves
· Try to avoid nervous habits when speaking e.g. ‘Um,
ah, yep, sort of’.
3. QUESTIONS
· Don’t interrupt the person before they have finished
asking the question.
· Don’ t answer immediately but do not spend too
long trying to answer the question
· Think about your answer
· Some questions will have more than one part in
them. It is ok to ask the panel to repeat the question
· Don’t hesitate to answer the first part of the question
and then ask the panel to repeat the second part
· Be natural, let your personality shine through
· Try to smile and remain calm.
4. AT THE END OF THE INTERVIEW
· Once again thank the employer for their time and shake
hands.
· You may ask when they will be contacting the
applicants.
It is ok and generally expected at the end of the interview for you to ask the panel questions about the organisation or about the position. If you’ve done your research about the company, this is the perfect time to show that you have a real interest in the them and becoming a part of their team.
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