Congratulations! You’ve got yourself a job interview. This means the company thinks you have what it takes to do the job, so allow yourself some time for a mini celebration. All done? Ok, it’s now time to ace the next step: the interview.
Interviews can be a daunting process, but by planning ahead, dressing appropriately and preparing your answers, you’ll be able to launch your career in no time. There’s just one other thing you need to remember and that’s what to take to an interview – read on for our advice.
First things first, bring a notepad and pen. There’s nothing worse than scrambling around for a pen or piece of paper and having to ask the interviewer to borrow one. It simply makes you look disorganised. So make sure you bring your own.
Having a pen and pad ready allows you to jot down names, company information or last minute questions, which you may wish to ask the interviewer. It shows that you’re taking the interview seriously by coming prepared.
If you’re unsure of where you’re going, or the hiring manager has given you specific instructions, then it’s crucial that you know the route beforehand. This will stop you from turning up late for the interview.
Print off directions the moment you confirm the interview and aim to do a test run beforehand. This will ensure that you know exactly where you’re going on the day.
Having a form of identification such as a driving license or passport is always useful, as the employer may request it on the day.
It’s not necessary for every job, but if you know it’s required then don’t forget to bring it along.
Having the job description in front of you will help to familiarise yourself with the job role and the responsibilities required.
It’s best to print off a copy beforehand to help you stay focused before the interview – you can even jot down a few notes of where you match the required skills, to use as a prompt.
You can easily forget someone’s name on the day. Prevent this from happening by noting down the names of the people attending the interview. It’s also worth having their contact information in case you need to get hold of them for anything before or afterwards.
The interviewer may have misplaced your CV right before the interview, so make sure to bring a few copies of your CV to give out upon request.
This not only makes you look organised, but enables you to refresh your memory on previous skills and experience. It also provides details that you may need to fill out on the day of the interview.
Yes, the interview is to see if you’re the right fit for the role, but remember, you need to see if it’s right for you too. Prepare some questions beforehand to have ready to ask at the end of the interview.
This will not only show that you’re genuinely interested in the company and the role, but will save you from looking flustered while trying to come up with any questions on the spot.
Having a few work samples or even a portfolio will really emphasise your attributes. It shows that you’re able to back up your claims and provide the interviewer with examples of your work.
If it’s better presented on a screen, then consider bringing an iPad or laptop to help demonstrate your work.
Unless you’re interviewing to be a juggler, always make sure you’re carrying everything in a bag or briefcase and that it’s neatly organised inside.
This will enable you to present everything in a tidy and orderly fashion and avoid you rummaging around for items.
Interviews can be a stressful time, so make sure you’ve eaten beforehand. If you didn’t have time for breakfast, or the interview is in the afternoon, then remember to bring a pre-interview snack along with a bottle of water to keep yourself hydrated and focused.
If you have space, then take a few mini-grooming tools with you, as you never know what the weather will be like and if you may need to reapply.
Fresh breath never hurt anyone so keep a few mints handy, but just make sure you get rid of it before the interview starts as chewing gum looks rude and unprofessional.
If you’ve prepared all the items listed above then you’re armed and ready to ace that interview. Now get a good night’s sleep, relax and show them why you’re the right one for the job!
CV-Library boasts a range of vacancies, from marketing, to teaching. It is one of the UK’s leading job boards and owns a handful of sector-specific career sites, including Engineering Jobs.
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