Recruitment Eire

INTERVIEW TIPS FOR IRELAND

You would not be human if you did not feel apprehensive before an interview. It is natural to be nervous but remember the employer has asked to meet you because they believe you are capable of doing the job and you must believe in your abilities.

As the main aim at an interview is to reinforce the impression that your CV has already created, it is important that you do some preparation and think about what you are going to say and how you are going to present yourself. Some proven strategies to help you take control of the interview are:

- Do your homework on the company. Look at their website, find out about their competitors.
- Dress appropriately to look smart and professional and make a good first impression.
- Take a copy of your CV with you in case the one you sent in has been mislaid.
- Allow plenty of time to get to the meeting - never be late.
- Practice the way you are going to greet the interviewer and how you are going to sit - body language is important. Do not fidget during the interview or tap your feet. Always look the interviewer in the eye when speaking to them and shake hands firmly.
- Sound positive when answering a question - do not let your confidence slip.
- If you do not understand a question, ask for some explanation - it is better to do this than go off at some tangent and get the answer totally wrong. Remember the interview is a two way process.
- Be prepared to answer questions such as "How you would describe yourself?" "Where do you see yourself in five year's time?" "What motivates you?" "Given an example of when you feel you have coped well under pressure at work". "What are your strengths and weaknesses?"
- Always close on a confident note such as "I hope I have answered all your questions, but please feel free to ask me anything else as I really feel I could do this job well and would very much like to work here".