Job seeker

Prepare well

Before the interview, think about:

• What you know of the job – the skills, abilities or qualifications asked for in the job details.
• What you have done which shows how suitable you are for the job – a CV or record of achievement will help.
• What you know about the company – how big it is and what it does. Finding out in advance shows you're seriously interested.
• Where the interview is to be held – how will you get there, what clothes are appropriate to wear.

Likely questions

Think about how you would answer:

• Why do you want to work for us?
• What have you got to offer?
• What were your favourite subjects at school?
• What do you do in your spare time?
• What are your long-term aims?

What you need to know about the job

Think about the questions you might like to ask:

• Where will you be working and with whom?
• What the job involves and who will be your immediate boss?
• What opportunities there are for training & further qualifications?
• What promotion prospects there are?
• What the wage/salary is.
• What hours you will be expected to work?
• How many holidays you will get each year?
• Whether there will be any more interviews.
• When you can expect a decision?
• When you will be required to start work?

At the interview

Relax, be yourself and...

• Arrive in plenty of time.
• Dress smartly.
• Be nice to everyone you meet.
• Smile when you go in, look the person in the eye & only sit down when asked.
• Take a copy of your CV with you.
• Have details of your schooling & exams handy, in case these are needed.
• Don't smoke or chew gum.
• Answer the questions fully - aim to give all the information necessary to help you get the job.
• Sound positive & enthusiastic.
• Don't say the first thing that comes into your head. Think before answering.
• If you find yourself making a mess of a question, stop, apologise & start again.
• If you don't understand a question, ask politely for an explanation.
• Be prepared to say why you want the job & what you have to offer.
• Ask any questions about the job you need to. If you can't think of any, just say, "I think you have covered everything I need to know".