You’re hired! Preparing for the perfect interview

In today’s world of new technologies, social networks and online resources, you can mix these with good old-fashioned common sense to help yourself stand out at interviews.

Johnny Nolan, Careers Manager for Newry in the Department for Employment and Learning’s Careers Service

Johnny Nolan, careers manager for Newry in the Department for Employment and Learning’s Careers Service offers some advice.

“The internet can help you to research the company you’re applying to. Doing your research is vital, as it shows you really want to work for the company and are prepared to make an effort to find out about them.

“Try to anticipate interview questions by reading and re-reading the job description and seeing what questions you might be asked. You should rehearse short answers to questions such as “Tell me about yourself” and “What are your goals?”

“Your responses should be relevant to the position on offer. Anticipate what the company is looking for – who do they want to hire and what are they looking for in an employee?

“You never should be late for an interview. In an interview context, on time is 15 minutes early. If you’re more than 15 minutes early, you’re going to be waiting around a while and that may make you more nervous,” he continued.

“First impressions are vital to making a lasting impact on an interviewer. Being personable and friendly speaks volumes. The handshake before and eye contact during the interview are very important. Some people tend to be nervous in an interview but make the effort to show the interviewer that you are someone they want to work with.

“You should be dressed appropriately for the position you’re applying for. If you look good you will feel more confident and are likely to perform better. Be careful on social media. In today’s world of social networks, it’s very easy for an employer to check people out – never put anything up on, for example, Facebook that you wouldn’t want a potential employer to see.

Johnny added, “It’s very important to leave a good impression. Follow up your interview with an email or a thank-you note, and you’ll be remembered in the long run.”

If you need further information, please log onto www.nidirect.gov.uk/careers to find your local careers adviser. This site also carries extensive information on education, skills and training. You can also contact the Careers Service by phone on 0300 200 7820.

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Posted by Newry Times News on Dec 30 2013. Filed under Community, Features, Jobs & Careers. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry