Interview Preparation

One Week Before

Research the company

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If the company is not research the employers will know and feel as though you are not interested in the company as initiative has not been taken. It can also help with answering some difficult questions that may arise and the popular question which is 'why do you want to work with us?'

Practice interview techniques

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Being able to communicate effectively is going to convince the employer that they should hire you over other applicants. Therefore knowing how to answer questions can make you stand out as a candidate

Gather documents

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Documents such as qualifications and references should be on hand as they are usually in the bottom of the draw. Doing this early saves time rushing around later

Grooming

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This is when you should go for a haircut so that it looks sharp before the interview

Plan logistics

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Plan how you are going to travel to the interview whether it be by bus, car, train or walking. The route chosen should be the most efficient

Examine the job description

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Re-check the job description so that key parts of the description can be placed within the practice answers for the interview

On the Day

Check transportation

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It is important to plan a journey to interview in order to avoid being late. This means that any cancellation or delays on trains should be checked as well as any accidents on the roads, depending on how you are planning to travel.

Don't smoke or drink

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Smoking or drinking alcohol may give you bad breath and has an effect on the way that you smell which is not a positive impression

Conduct personal hygiene

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Shower thoroughly and make sure your teeth is brushed and use mouthwash for a fresher breath

Positive visualisation

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Positive visualistion has many studies show that it can bring you closer to where you want to be as it prepares you for success

Turn phone off

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To avoid disturbances during the interview

Leave early

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To avoid being late because of any unforeseen circumstances, leave early. It also shows the employer that you are punctual and you are taking the role seriously

One Day Before

Check the weather

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It is important to check the weather as this can effect the outfit chosen and the method of transportation

Plan outfit

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First impressions are key to having a successful interview, so you must be dressed smartly and appropriately for the type of interview

Mental preparation

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If you are anxious practice calming techniques so that you are in the right frame of mind for an interview

Final grooming

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This may include plucking eyebrows or shaving a beard for males, as well as making sure your nails are clean

Visualise

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Visualisation can help to install a plan of how the interview may proceed and can help to reinforce answers for typical interview questions

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Get a good nights sleep

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Sleep is extremely important to have a focused and clear mind. It can also improve appearance in terms of not having baggy eyes and looking much more fresh and alert

At the Interview

Have confidence

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If you don't believe in yourself nor is the employer and may not think you have the confidence to fulfill the role

Smile

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It creates a positive impression

Show knowledge about the company

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When answering questions try to refer to some of the companies achievements or history as this shows you have done your research

Body language

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Do not cross your arms or look down, maintain eye contact to appear more confident

Do not lie

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If you lie the employers is likely to find out and this could ruin your credibility and affect your ability to obtain other jobs

Refer to achievements

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When trying to sell yourself to the employer try and bring up your achievements and situation where you have succeeded, especially if it is something that is not on your CV