A guide to successful interviews

More Interview Techniques

Please note that the attached questions provided are a framework and to be used as a guide. This information is provided to all our candidates, consequently you should NOT simply repeat all the questions word for word but match them to your own personality and objectives.

Listed below are points to remember when attending interviews. Although essential to present a professional image, companies are interested in people. Be yourself.

• Always, unless instructed, attend an interview as smartly and professionally as possible, i.e. wearing a suit.
• Browse the relevant web site before attending interview to obtain information and gain a “feel” for the company.
• Plan your journey carefully so that you may arrive in good time. Make sure you have a contact telephone number so that you may inform 1st Insight or the relevant company if you experience delays.
• First impressions count. Check your appearance before entering, especially after a long journey.
• During the interview ensure that regular eye contact is made, and that you avoid slouching / leaning back in your chair. If you feel uncomfortable with eye contact or body language contact your recruitment consultant for some useful advice.
• Listen to the questions asked! Never assume the interviewer has complete knowledge, if you do not explain your answers fully the interviewer may assume you do not have the necessary understanding.
• Building a rapport can help the interview go smoothly. It is important to keep the conversation flowing naturally, but you should NOT interrupt the interviewer mid-sentence. This can be achieved by avoiding single word answers. An interviewer will not always phrase a question in a way that makes it easy for you to impart information. Try to expand yes / no answers wherever possible.
• If you are asked technical questions which you do not understand / can not answer, then honesty is the best policy. Tell the interviewer you do not know. Then go on to tell the interviewer “that in a customer situation you would offer a positive response, taking ownership of the problem, referring to technical data or escalated support if necessary and ensuring the customer is kept informed during the process.”
• Any documentation i.e. Qualifications, course certificates, Well Done letters, employee of the month etc take them to interview to reinforce your application (these should NOT act as the focal point of the interview)
• Even the most confident of people can get nervous at interviews, try to remain calm and focus on your strengths. Remember that your application has already been screened and the company has requested you attend interview as they believe you may be the solution to their recruitment needs.
• Ensure that when the opportunity arises you ask enough questions to determine whether the role and the company are right for you. An interview is an opportunity for you to interview the client as well as for them to interview you. The only question 1st Insight should have to ask, is whether you wish to work there or not.

If you are fully prepared for the interview you are far more likely to achieve success and confidently enjoy the meeting.