Ace Your Interview
Has the summer left you with the holiday blues? Did the break from work leave you resolved to the fact that you actually didn’t want to go back? Then don’t let it drag on into the dreary winter months – make changes now, so that it isn’t quite so tough dragging yourself into work when the nights get shorter and the mornings get colder.
The key to getting that next job is to impress your prospective employer at the interview. Of course, it isn’t always easy getting to this stage, but your recruitment consultant will be on hand to help you through the whole process. Tim Cook, managing director of Hays Construction offers some top tips for a successful interview:
Be Punctual: When leaving for an interview make sure that you give yourself enough time to reach the arranged meeting point with a good five minutes to spare. Punctuality is an important first impression for any potential employer, as it shows good time management and a positive approach to the potential role.
Be sensitive: During an interview, your interviewer will subconsciously give you a lot of information on how to behave, which you should use as a guide for the rest of the interview. Observe their style and pace, and try to match it. Listen to what they are saying, and let them know you have been by asking good questions and making insightful comments.
Build rapport: Although it may not seem this way, it is up to you whether your interview resembles an interrogation or not. If you don't ask questions, you will force the interviewer to ask you more, leaving you without the necessary lead-ins to points you want to get across.
Talk smart: One common mistake candidates make is to talk too much in an interview. Too much information, particularly personal information, should not be discussed during the interview. It is important to listen to the question asked and answer it accurately and succinctly.
Second time round: So you have been asked back for a second interview – well done! What are you likely to face now, and what are the best strategies for securing the job at this stage? Keep this advice in mind:
- They will want to see if you really know your stuff, so make sure you can speak at length about any relevant experience.
- Interviewers need to know you're interested in their organisation, so always do your research and ask at least one knowledgeable question about their business or projects they have run.
- You might be introduced to potential co-workers. Try to make a personal connection with each of them.
- If your interview ends without an offer, try to close the deal by asking, "What's the next step in the process?" and “When can I expect a response?”
As a final thought, remember in any interview, be it your first, second or even third, to relax. An interview is as much for you to find out about the role and company offering the position as it is for the interviewer to understand your skills and qualifications. Attempt to stay positive throughout the entire interview and remember to smile.
For further information about current opportunities contact Bill Chitty, regional manager of Hays Construction on 020 7259 8780 or visit www.hays.com/construction
