AccendoCV's Interview Preparation Tips

Additional Reading
The 10 Second CV Test
Producing a targeted covering letter
How to write the perfect covering letter
Understanding the job and career market
How to handle most interview questions
At what point does it become lying?
CV Writing - the art of the possible
Outplacement- where do we go from here?
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The majority of candidates going into interviews are under-prepared. They are not mentally aligned with their CV and cover letter and are unclear about their career goals. They are also ill-prepared in terms of research into the target company.

It is important that candidates do as much research as possible prior to attending an interview.  Preparation, practice and performance are the key to a successful interview.  


Top ten interview tips

Here are top 10 tips to get the best out of your interview and achieve that all important job offer:
1. It may sound basic but it is amazing how many people fall at this first hurdle. Always check the date, time and place of the interview. Ensure that you arrive on time and know the name of the interviewer to ask for them personally when you arrive.
2. Collect as much information as possible about the organisation - turnover, products, markets, locations, plans for growth, problem areas. Not only will this impress the interviewer but will generate questions for you to ask at the interview.
3. Pre-empt the questions you will be asked and rehearse your answers beforehand. Commonly asked questions include 'What are your strengths and weaknesses?', 'Why did you leave your last company?' 'What are your career aims?'  Remember that the interview is an opportunity to expand on your CV.
4. In the interview, shake hands firmly, make frequent eye contact and try to establish an early rapport with the interviewer.
5. Body language is vital - do not fidget, wring your hands or smoke. Sit upright, keep alert and look interested.
6. Remember that an interview is a two way process, not only is the interviewer assessing whether you are suitable for the job but you need to decide whether the job on offer is the job you want. Identify your own information needs - what is nature of role to be filled and how do you fit the bill? What are opportunities for personal development and growth? How will your progress be measured?  Find out about organisation's structure, style and culture.
7. Speak clearly and confidently and do not allow yourself to be discouraged.
8. Constantly remind yourself that you have something to sell and focus on how you can make a positive contribution to the role.
9. Make sure that you get an opportunity to ask questions. These should be open-ended to bring out more information than closed yes or no questions. Avoid questions on salaries, hours of work, holidays etc and concentrate on the nature of the role and its value to the organisation.
10. Finally, do not try to be too clever, lie, pretend or give evasive answers. Do not lose your temper, get flustered, panic or criticise your former employers. Ensure that you are totally consistent with the contents of your CV and cover letter. Above all be truthful.

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