1. Preparing for an interview

2. The aim of this presentation is to give you a better understanding of:
Preparation & first impressions
The rules to follow
Body language
How interviewers decide
Interview questions
The STAR technique
What to do after the interview

3. Preparation & first impressions

4. Where is it? – Be Prepared!
How will you get there?
Which bus/ tram/ train?
OR is there parking?
Allow plenty of travel time

5. What do you need to take? Copy of application
Progress file, CV or certificates
List of questions
Details about the organisation or interview
Money
Mobile (with credit, switched off)
Umbrella
Tissue
Pen

6. What to wear? Clean & tidy, smart & neat Clean hair Smell OK?
Don’t overdo perfume/ aftershave or make up
Wear appropriate clothes

7. The rules to follow

8. Be punctual
Be polite
Don’t eat/ chew gum
Don’t smoke
Never complain about anyone
Show that you are interested in the job
Speak positively

9. Body language

10. What is body language?
The things you say without words
Eye contact
Smile
Arms folded or open

11. What do these gestures mean?
Would you do this in an interview?

12. Interview questions

13. Questions will fall under these three categories:
Can you do the job?
What relevant experience do you have?
Can you demonstrate resilience?
Can you use your initiative?
How will you do the job?
What skills do you have that will be useful to the role?
Can you think of examples?
Will you fit in?
What do you know about the company/organisation?
How do your values align with theirs?
Are you a team player?
Do you communicate effectively?

14. Possible questions: Tell me about yourself
What experience do you have?
Why are you interested in this position?
What do you hope to do in the future?
What are your strengths?
What are your weaknesses?
When have you had to work under pressure?
Tell us about a time you have had to deal with a disagreement or conflict.
Any questions? (always have a question to ask at the end)

15. How to answer Be yourself Be honest Be positive
Answer the question fully
Not just ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answers
Give examples
Ask if you are unsure what they mean

16. The STAR technique

18. Afterwards

19. If you get it… Say thank you!
Decide whether you want to accept the position or not and confirm as soon as you can
Confirm your working hours, start date, time and location
Find out the name of your line manager

20. If you don’t get it… Ask for feedback Learn from your experience
Stay positive if you don’t get the position. The next one will be just around the corner.

21. Thank you