Preparing for interviews

If you want to make a good impression at your interview, make sure you prepare in advance.

Do your research

Before your interview, make sure you read through the job description again, as well as the CV and cover letter you sent off. The more you know about a job and the employer, the better you'll perform in the interview.

Think about what you'll say

Try and work out what questions the interviewer will ask. There are some questions that often get asked, so work out in advance what you might say.

What relevant skills/experience have you got?
> Briefly run through your career or academic history, highlighting relevant skills and experience

What are your main strengths?
> Always have three things ready to say.

What are your weaknesses?
> Try and turn any weaknesses into positives, e.g. I sometimes get frustrated if other members of my team don't work as hard as they could

Why do you want this job?
> Is the role perfect? Have you always wanted to work for that company? Do you think the role will be challenging and help you develop?

Why do you want to leave your current job?
> Don't be negative about your current job or employer. Instead find something positive to focus on, e.g., I'd like to progress my career.

Where do you see yourself in five years time?
> Try and respond in a way that shows you're confident and ambitious but not arrogant, e.g., in a senior role, having worked my way up.

Have your own questions ready

Show the interviewer you've thought things through and are interested in the role by having some questions of your own ready.

• Why has the position become available?
• Are there training opportunities to develop my skills?
• How will my performance be measured?
• What is the structure of the team this role sits in?

Be presentable

Plan in advance what you are going to wear for your interview and make sure your clothes are clean and ironed. If you look sloppy, the interview might think your work will be sloppy too.

Make sure you know where to go

Arriving late for an interview can ruin your chances of getting a job. Make sure you have the address to hand and a map if you need one. Work out beforehand how you will get there and plan to arrive early, just in case there are any mishaps on the way.

Be prepared

If you want to be well prepared and impress in interviews, have a practice run with a friend or relative. Get them to to ask you the questions that might come up and ask them to give you feedback on your responses.