10 steps to your PERFECT JOB
1 Preparation, preparation, preparation
I cannot stress enough how much more confident you will feel if you have prepared yourself properly, so do your research and get your thoughts, and paperwork, in order.
2 Look the part
Irrespective of the role you are applying for, the interviewer’s first impression of you is what will remain.
Wear a pressed suit, dark navy or black, with a white shirt or blouse. Gentlemen should add a plain, dark tie, nothing too loud, and sensible black shoes. Never assume that ‘this looks good’. You may feel that a leisure suit or a trendy cardigan looks fashionable, but you are trying to convey your professionalism.
Do not let yourself down. It is so frustrating when you discover your application was unsuccessful simply because of what you wore.
3 How to get there
Do not rely on local taxi drivers or people who live in the area to direct you to your destination. It’s very easy to print a map of the locality from the internet beforehand and this will avoid any unnecessary confusion.
4 Watch the time
You never know what holdups you may have en route. Try to arrive in the area a good 20 minutes before your appointment and explore the surroundings (within reason). Make sure you are at the interview location five to 10 minutes early – it gives the impression you are punctual. If you find you may be late, or cannot attend, please let your contact know at the very earliest opportunity.
5 Compose yourself
When approaching the entrance of the building, imagine that someone is watching your arrival. Chewing gum is never a good look. Who is likely to be greeting you on the other side of the door? It may be the principal of the establishment, it may be a member of the family or a member of staff. You want everyone to see you in your best light. Never assume anything at all.
6 Smile
This could be another little test, so sit quietly and upright, smiling at anyone who passes by. Please do not use your mobile phone – at the very least it should be on silent and hidden away. At one interview I attended, the woman who was arranging the owers suddenly introduced herself as Her Ladyship. Be prepared.
7 At the interview
Basic etiquette is to wait for the principal to offer their hand to shake, then to introduce yourself: ‘Good morning [name]. I’m John Giles-Larkin, thank you for taking the time to meet with me.’ Nice and simple. Wait for the principal to offer a seat, and wait for them to sit down first.
Try to answer questions clearly, precisely and truthfully – do not waffle. It is better to keep your answers fairly short. You will be asked to elaborate if needed.
Sit up straight. If you feel like the interview isn’t going well and the job is no longer for you, please do not become despondent and slouch in your chair. Keep your head held high and maintain your good name. Keep smiling.
8 Be inquisitive
If you are prompted to ask any questions, keep them short and relevant. Although it may be good to know, avoid asking where the nearest tenpin bowling alley is because you like to play on a Friday evening – this is not suitable.
It will help to have made notes on questions you may wish to ask. Please listen to your interviewer – nothing could be more embarrassing than asking a question about something they have just discussed with you.
9 Depart with aplomb
The principal will draw the interview to a conclusion. Again, wait for them to stand and offer their hand. Thank them for their time and tell them you look forward to hearing from them in due course. Make sure you have plenty of time for your return journey, you do not want to force the interview to a close because you only have 20 minutes to get your train.
10 Accept the offer
If you are lucky enough to be offered the role, congratulations! Discuss all areas in detail and be honest with your salary request.
You cannot subsequently explain that you need more money, or you don’t like living in the country. Accepting a new role may mean having to move and living in. It has to be right for both parties, so be certain of your decision before signing on the dotted line.
And finally… my best piece of advice is not to worry. Relax, be yourself and be confident (never arrogant). Enjoy the experience, and good luck.
I cannot stress enough how much more confident you will feel if you have prepared yourself properly, so do your research and get your thoughts, and paperwork, in order.
2 Look the part
Irrespective of the role you are applying for, the interviewer’s first impression of you is what will remain.
Wear a pressed suit, dark navy or black, with a white shirt or blouse. Gentlemen should add a plain, dark tie, nothing too loud, and sensible black shoes. Never assume that ‘this looks good’. You may feel that a leisure suit or a trendy cardigan looks fashionable, but you are trying to convey your professionalism.
Do not let yourself down. It is so frustrating when you discover your application was unsuccessful simply because of what you wore.
3 How to get there
Do not rely on local taxi drivers or people who live in the area to direct you to your destination. It’s very easy to print a map of the locality from the internet beforehand and this will avoid any unnecessary confusion.
4 Watch the time
You never know what holdups you may have en route. Try to arrive in the area a good 20 minutes before your appointment and explore the surroundings (within reason). Make sure you are at the interview location five to 10 minutes early – it gives the impression you are punctual. If you find you may be late, or cannot attend, please let your contact know at the very earliest opportunity.
5 Compose yourself
When approaching the entrance of the building, imagine that someone is watching your arrival. Chewing gum is never a good look. Who is likely to be greeting you on the other side of the door? It may be the principal of the establishment, it may be a member of the family or a member of staff. You want everyone to see you in your best light. Never assume anything at all.
6 Smile
This could be another little test, so sit quietly and upright, smiling at anyone who passes by. Please do not use your mobile phone – at the very least it should be on silent and hidden away. At one interview I attended, the woman who was arranging the owers suddenly introduced herself as Her Ladyship. Be prepared.
7 At the interview
Basic etiquette is to wait for the principal to offer their hand to shake, then to introduce yourself: ‘Good morning [name]. I’m John Giles-Larkin, thank you for taking the time to meet with me.’ Nice and simple. Wait for the principal to offer a seat, and wait for them to sit down first.
Try to answer questions clearly, precisely and truthfully – do not waffle. It is better to keep your answers fairly short. You will be asked to elaborate if needed.
Sit up straight. If you feel like the interview isn’t going well and the job is no longer for you, please do not become despondent and slouch in your chair. Keep your head held high and maintain your good name. Keep smiling.
8 Be inquisitive
If you are prompted to ask any questions, keep them short and relevant. Although it may be good to know, avoid asking where the nearest tenpin bowling alley is because you like to play on a Friday evening – this is not suitable.
It will help to have made notes on questions you may wish to ask. Please listen to your interviewer – nothing could be more embarrassing than asking a question about something they have just discussed with you.
9 Depart with aplomb
The principal will draw the interview to a conclusion. Again, wait for them to stand and offer their hand. Thank them for their time and tell them you look forward to hearing from them in due course. Make sure you have plenty of time for your return journey, you do not want to force the interview to a close because you only have 20 minutes to get your train.
10 Accept the offer
If you are lucky enough to be offered the role, congratulations! Discuss all areas in detail and be honest with your salary request.
You cannot subsequently explain that you need more money, or you don’t like living in the country. Accepting a new role may mean having to move and living in. It has to be right for both parties, so be certain of your decision before signing on the dotted line.
And finally… my best piece of advice is not to worry. Relax, be yourself and be confident (never arrogant). Enjoy the experience, and good luck.