PREPARING FOR THE DREADED INTERVIEW
The thought of an interview strikes fear into the hearts of many experienced professionals at the peak of their careers, but it doesn’t have to be this way! Interviews are the first step to positive life changes, and with the right preparation you can one day be that smug colleague without a tragic interview tale.
BEFORE THE INTERVIEW RESEARCH THE ORGANISATION OR COURSE Conducting thorough research is a good way of showing your passion for the position you applied for. Knowing your stuff will show you’re committed and will also drive off any nerves – it’s a huge confidence booster. Use the internet to research as extensively as you can; from the official website, affiliated sites, what the media say, and review sites like Glassdoor.com.
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If it’s a job interview, make sure you understand their products and services, target market, values and plans and their history and accomplishments. STUDY THE JOB DESCRIPTION Make sure you know the job description and person specification inside and out. Fully understand the duties and responsibilities of the role you are applying for. If it’s a university or further education interview, make sure you understand the academic requirements of the course, its core goals, the level of commitment required (such as the length or difficulty of the course) and
the history and reputation of the course provider. DO A SELF EVALUATION Make sure you understand your strengths and weaknesses, how your past academic and/or work experience is relevant to the role, and what skills you’ve learnt from your hobbies and extracurriculars. Do you spend half your life on the football pitch? Make sure they know about your teamwork skills. Do you watch an embarrassing number of documentaries for fun? Tell them about your curious mind and love of learning.
