So you've got that all important interview for your first job, college course, or even University. Here are our hot tips of how to really impress.
1) What to do once you have been offered an interview
- Accept. Confirm the time and date, and that you will be able to make it
- Research. Know what about the organisations, or course you are applying for
- Read any information you have submitted to them already eg application forms, C.V's or UCAS
- What to wear? Better to over dress than under dress. A shirt and Tie for male students is never wrong, and female students should think along the lines of smart office wear. If you think it will be less formal it is best to ring up and check that first. Smart dress creates a mature and serious impression
- Location, location, location. Find out where it will be. If possible drive the day before to check out how long it takes. If it is a University or College it may have two campus's, don't get caught out by this as they can be across town from each other.
2) On the day
3) First Impressions count/ Body Language
- A firm handshake, and introduce yourself
- Make eye contact
- Smile
- Make sure you have turned your mobile phone off, prior to walking in
- Try to sit up straight
- Look at the person who is asking the question, but address everyone on the panel when answering
- Try to be yourself! Everyone has unique and fantastic qualities, try to let your natural good points shine through.
4) Answering Questions
- Be positive; try to see each question as a way to explain what you are good at. It is good to answer the question "What weaknesses do you have", with an answer about how you overcame a personal weaknesses in the past
- Pause before you answer, it will give you time to think
- Avoid yes/ no answers. They will be looking for examples and detail
- Speak slowly and clearly. Use breathing techniques to stay calm
- They may ask if you have any questions. You must have a few prepared.
5) Have a go
Use the examples below to practice with a friend, or use them to write a few answers that you rehearse before the day.
1 What do you think is your greatest strength?
2 What has made you decide to apply for this course?
3 What qualities and skills do you feel you would bring to this course?
4 What do you think you would like to do after successfully completing the course?
5 Describe a situation when you have had to overcome a problem and how did you do this?
6 What is your greatest non-academic achievement?
7 What do you think is your main weakness?
8 What part of the course interests you the most and why?
