Interview Advice
How do I prepare for a job interview?
You are certain to be asked specific questions about the company you’ll have the job interview with, so make sure you know the basic facts and figures such as the last year’s profits and latest product launches. Try to find information about the corporate culture and values. The employer will expect you to be able to talk about his company and explain him why you are interested in working for him. Here are some pieces of advice on how to get ready for your interview.
An online search
Log you on to the company’s website. This is the best place to start. You will find plenty of information about the products or services they offer. Keep in mind it shows the company as the directors wants it to be seen. Use what they say and the way they see their business in your interview to explain why you fit the company. If they have a press page, take advantage of it to check the news. Try to filter the information to keep the ones that are related to the job offer. For instance, if you apply for a marketing position, emphasize on the marketing strategy and communication actions the company is taking. In the case you know the names of the people who will be interviewing you, use the site’s search facility to discover more about them.
Industry knowledge
You not only need to have information about the company, you should also have good background knowledge of the industry. Browse through business publications and websites to see what they are writing about the industry news and get some general information.
Preparing yourself
This is an important point. We advice you to spend some time preparing the interview and the questions the employer may ask you. This is like going into an exam, you feel more confident if you studied hard enough before. Don’t get caught out by basic questions you haven’t prepared. Preparing yourself is a good way to be more confident.
Here are a few tips:
- Have a mock interview with a friend based on the common interview questions you’re likely to face.
- Be sure you know the time, date and location of the interview and the name of interviewers.
- Prepare what you’re going to wear the night before.
- If you are asked to bring certificates, references, etc, get them ready well in advance to avoid having to chase around on the morning of the big day.
Be sure of what you want
Log you on to the company’s website. This is the best place to start. You will find plenty of information about the products or services they offer. Keep in mind it shows the company as the directors wants it to be seen. Use what they say and the way they see their business in your interview to explain why you fit the company. If they have a press page, take advantage of it to check the news. Try to filter the information to keep the ones that are related to the job offer. For instance, if you apply for a marketing position, emphasize on the marketing strategy and communication actions the company is taking. In the case you know the names of the people who will be interviewing you, use the site’s search facility to discover more about them.