Before Interview

‘Knowledge must come through action' – Sophocles 496 BC

DOING YOUR HOMEWORK 

You will feel more confident, positive and better equipped to answer certain questions if you research and plan for your interview. Find out as much as possible about the job, your potential employer and the organisation.

From a personal perspective, this information will give you a great insight into the company, its business, the industry it operates in and the company culture.

From the interviewer's point of view, he/she will be able to ascertain how serious you are about your career, how interested you are about joining the organisation and how motivated you are.

Your consultant at Davis Green Ltd will have already provided you with a job specification and a brief company profile. You can also obtain further information from the following sources: 

• The company's website.
• The company's annual report.
• Profiles on the internet.
• Local libraries.
• Local press, trade press and press releases.

Take a small selection of questions to your interview, which demonstrate your understanding of the role and the company (see our Interview Questions page). 

PREPARING YOURSELF

Remember, you never get a second chance to make a first impression! Some of the following tips may be of use:
 

• If possible, visit the company's premises beforehand to familiarise yourself with the surroundings and assess the appropriate travelling time to get you there in plenty of time on the day.
   
• Allow for unpredictable events by checking the condition of your car or the public transport timetable. Being late for an interview is inexcusable! If you are delayed, telephone your consultant with your estimated time of arrival.
   
• Prepare your interview clothes. Look smart – feel confident.
   
• Do anything possible to improve your appearance. Be well groomed, have a hair cut, trim your beard, and manicure your nails.
   
• Breathe deeply and try to relax whilst waiting for the interview to start.
   
• Finally, as your interview is called, greet your interviewer(s) by name, with a smile and a firm hand shake. Appear interested and let your personality come through.