Interview Tips

Interview Techniques

You have been successful in securing an interview, so you are confident that your experience and background has matched the prospective job description - on paper.  Now’s you have an opportunity to really sell yourself as an individual.  Most interviews only last for an hour and there are a number of areas that you can prepare for:

Pre- Interview preparation

  • Make sure you know the precise time and location for your interview and leave enough time to get there.  A 10 minute margin for error should be adequate.  Use travel planning websites such as www.multimap.co.uk for directions or nearest train station information.
  • If possible, find out who’s interviewing you and their position within the organisation.  You may also be able to ascertain the format for the interview.
  • Research the organisation.  A good place to start is the company website if they have one.  Look at recent press releases for current activity and read their ‘about us’ pages.
  • Think about questions you might be asked during the interview and mentally prepare some answers.  Preparing for the ‘worst’ questions will ease any apprehension you may have.
  • First impressions count.  Dress smartly for the interview and don’t forget to polish your shoes.
  • Know your own CV – It’s amazing how many people let themselves down because they haven’t taken the time to read their own CV before an interview.
  • Consider questions that you might like to ask during the interview. The interview should be looked as a two-way process.


At the interview

The interviewer will not only be examining your experience and skills, but will also be looking at how you fit into the organisation’s culture.  Always be your self, but it might be helpful to also consider the following:

  • A firm handshake and engaging smile is always a good opener.
  • Maintain good eye contact with your interviewer(s). Looking out the window whilst talking gives a bad impression.
  • Beware of rambling when answering questions.  Try to deliver an informative but succinct reply and avoid yes/no monosyllabic answers.
  • Do not over criticise your current employer.
  • Be positive and enthusiastic for the position you’re applying for.  If you have any reservations, these can be addressed with your recruitment consultant at a later point.
  • Be natural.  If you obtain an offer by acting, you will have to maintain an ‘act’ for the duration of your employment.


Closing the interview

  • Always leave the interviewer with a positive impression.  Thank them for their time and the opportunity to meet them. 
  • Immediately after the interview, jot down your thoughts and any questions you may have forgotten to ask, whilst they’re still fresh in your mind.
  • Contact your recruitment consultant and give them feedback on the interview.  The sooner you do this, the sooner your consultant can speak to the organisation and find out what they thought of the interview.
  • Follow up the interview with an email or letter, again thanking them for their time and interest.


It is important to stay in touch with your recruitment consultant at all times.  They are familiar with the whole recruitment process from interview, through to offer, acceptance/rejection and resignation, and will guide you through the whole process.