Spinnaker’s top 7 tips on job interviews:
- Do your homework
The one thing employers can’t stand is someone who turns up for interview without researching their company on their website and in any published documents such as annual reports and accounts. - Read the job spec
Think about the tasks and responsibilities listed and then make a list of examples of achievements in your past (work and non-work) that prove your ability to do those tasks. - Know who you’re meeting
Make sure you know who you will be meeting (it may be more than one person), their job titles and their relevance to the role you have applied for. - Dress to impress
Dress smartly for the interview. Be conservative. Like it or not, books are judged by their cover! Look your best and show the interviewer that you’re the perfect fit for the organisation. - Learn your CV
While it’s important to fully understand the job spec, it’s also essential to be able to explain what’s on your CV: why your experience is relevant, your work history, why you left previous jobs, what your ambitions are, and what you’re like as a person. - Be interested
Be ready to ask questions about the company, the role, the working culture, and the career opportunities. You’re selling yourself, yes, but the employer is also selling the opportunity to you. Have some questions mapped out in advance and don’t be afraid to take notes with you so you don’t forget anything. - Close the sale
Sell yourself! Talk about your achievements, and examples where you’ve performed well. Quote relevant numbers – profits made, budgets met, targets achieved and money saved. Give examples of how you’ve managed people if that’s relevant to you.
