• SFR RECRUITMENT SOLUTIONS

Top 10 Tips for Interview Success

Jul 14, 2022 Blog Post

It goes without saying that the interview process is one of the most important steps in getting a job.

The interview process can feel a little nerve-wrecking, but the key to success is in the 3ps preparation, professionalism and personality! If you applied directly you may have already begun researching the company in order to write a mind-blowing personal statement or carefully matching your experience with the job description in order to get your application noticed.

If you’re using a recruitment agency, the application process is a lot more straight-forward, for example the company/candidate introduction is made by the agency and not by the applicant through an application process and quite often, all you need to do, is update your CV. The agency route feels different as the in-depth research really begins before the interview and you may have less time to prepare as the recruitment process tends to move faster.

Check-out our earlier blog on the 3ps

Here’s some tips for the interview process itself:

1. Be Prepared

Before the interview you will need to prepare to show you’re generally interested in the company and role. It will help you come across as more professional, knowledgeable, and that you understand the job role, and what skills and experience you can bring to it.

2. Dress Professionally

When attending an interview in person or online it goes without saying that you must look the part! Stick to a professional dress code, which means wearing clothes that look smart and make you look your best. A suit is always best, but if you go without a suit jacket ensure your clothes fit well and that you look smart.

3. Be Punctual

It’s so important to be on time for your interview, it’s better to arrive early than be rushing around and adding stress. If you’re late it gives the impression that you’re not interested or not capable of doing the job, that you’re careless and may be late on the job too letting customers down and being late for meetings. Better to show punctuality and show up 10-15 minutes ahead of schedule interview time. Even if online don’t leave it until the interview time, give yourself extra time for connection issues.

4. Always bring a copy of your CV

The interview is sure to have a copy of your CV, but always make sure you bring a copy with you. This applies for both in-person and online interviews. Having your CV in-front of you will show you’re prepared and it gives you something to refer to in case you get tongue-tied and jogs your memory of the key things to mention.

5. Turn Off Your Phone

Always turn off your phone before the interview starts! You don’t want the embarrassment of it going off during your interview, even on vibrate it can still be noisy, and how many times do you think your phone is on silent when it’s not? Always check beforehand, turning it off is best!

6. Be Confident

One of the most important things you can do in an interview is display confidence, and this doesn’t meant being cocky or arrogant. Try to feel comfortable in your own skin and focus on conveying that you’re the best person for the job. Always make eye contact, sit-up straight in a good posture, and speak clearly and coherently.

7. Listen Carefully

In an interview there will be a set amount of questions that you’ll need to answer. Make sure you listen carefully to the questions and that you answer them carefully. Good listening shows that you’re paying attention and picking up on things they say will help to build rapport with the interviewer, and feel more relaxed.

8. Be Genuine

Always remember to be genuine! Being honest and showing your true character if always best as, at the end of the day, it’s what makes you unique and memorable. If you’re unsure about something always ask the interviewer, never presume, they will appreciate your honesty.

9. Ask Questions

Interviews are a two-way process, so you’ll usually be given the opportunity to ask questions at the end of the interview. This is your time to interview them and learn more about the position and company. Also it’s time you can use to your advantage to show you’re truly interested in the role. Always have your questions prepared ahead of the interview and write them down to avoid any mind-blanks, always have extra questions in case some of them have already been answered during the course of the interview.

10. Follow Up

After the interview, send a thank you note to the interviewer and express your continued interest in the role and why you’re an excellent fit. A simple email or handwritten note will sufficient. If using a recruitment agency always provide feedback after the interview promptly so they can get back to the client.

Conclusion

We hope these 10 tips help you be successful at your next job interview. Just remember to be professional, confident, listen carefully and follow-up – you’ll soon be landing your job of your dreams.

We wish you every success with your next job interview – go smash it! SFR Recruitment is a dedicated recruiter and specialist operating in the ironmongery, door hardware and access control sectors. If you need support with finding your next job role, or with help with interviews, get in-touch with us at SFR Recruitment Solutions we would be happy to help you.

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