Being fully prepared for your interview will give you the best possible chance of securing the role. Before you go to the interview your consultant will fully brief you and send you as much information as possible but in the meantime here are some useful tips.

• If you fail to prepare, prepare to fail. We know it’s a cliché but before going to the company we will give you as much information as possible so research the role, research the product and research the company.
• Make sure you know where you are going. All information will be provided but work out how long it will take to get there and allow your self plenty of time to arrive early.
• Dress smart. No exceptions.
• When you meet the client shake hands and maintain eye contact.
• During the interview lean slightly forward, maintain eye contact and don’t fidget.
• Try and get the client talking about the role. Whilst you will already have a job spec if you get the client talking they will tell you exactly the type of person that they are looking for.
• Listen to what the client is saying and don’t interrupt.
• Be enthusiastic. Don’t let an opportunity get away from you simply because you were monosyllabic and appeared disinterested. Let the client know this is the role you want.
• When giving answers always use examples. It’s more powerful to prove that you have experience than just saying it’s something you could do.
• When asked why you are looking for a new role be honest but don’t be negative. Think positively and make your reasons for leaving as career orientated as possible.
• When asked for your strengths tailor your answers to the type of person the interviewer is looking for and as ever always use examples.
• If you’re asked what your weaknesses are, try not to offer up a genuine weakness that is critical to the role. You will only serve to give the interviewer reason not to take you on. When asked, try and describe how you have overcome a weakness and turned it into a strength.
• If the discussion moves to salary try not to talk figures. Your consultant will have a thorough understanding of what you are looking for financially and will act in the best interests of both client and candidate to reach a figure that all parties are happy with. Once again if asked, try and make your reasons for wanting to join the company as career orientated as possible and not as though you just want the highest salary.
• At the end of the interview give yourself another chance to cover any lingering reservations the client may have about you. Don’t ask “How did I do?” but instead ask them if there was anything they’d like you to clarify or go over again. Close them for a second interview but don’t push too hard.
• If invited for a second interview you may be asked to do a presentation. Allow yourself time to prepare and you can always ask your consultant for advice.
• Don’t be complacent in a second interview. You may have performed superbly in the first interview but you will still need to prove to them that you are the right person for the role.

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