Interviews

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Before you go

Find out as much information as you can about the employer. Read any information they have sent you and look at their website. If you can't find the company website, why not google the company and see what results you get:

  • What sort of organisation are they?
  • What do they do, make or sell?
  • Who are their clients or customers?

Look at the application form and the job description. Think about what questions they might ask you and what answers you might give:

  • Tell me about yourself
  • What have you been doing since you left school/college?
  • Why have you applied for this position?/Why do you want to work here?
  • What qualities do you have to offer?
  • What was your favourite subject in school/college?
  • What skills do you think you need to do this job?
  • Give me an example of when you worked in a team/on your own?
  • What do you know about this company/organisation?
  • What do you do in your spare time?
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses

Also before the interview day, make sure you know how to get to the company and how long it will take. If you can, have a trial run.

On the day

Remember first impressions count, so making sure you look the part goes a long way to helping you get the job. On the day, try to wear a suit, if you don't have one, make sure you dress smart casual. Don't go overboard with jewellery, perfume and makeup. Try keeping it to a minimum.

Other things you should do are:

  • Make sure you are ready in plenty of time.
  • Make sure you take all the documents you need with you - certificates, record of achievement.
  • Get to the interview 15 minutes before it is due to start and check in with the receptionist when you arrive.
  • Turn off your mobile once you arrive.
  • Don't chew gum or smoke.
  • Be polite and friendly to everyone you meet.
  • In the interview, don't sit down until are asked to.
  • Don't slump in your chair, sit comfortably with your hands in your lap and any bags or folders at the side of your chair
  • Try not to fidget or fiddle with your clothes or jewellery. If you do, try sitting on your hands to stop yourself.
  • Make eye contact with the interviewers and smile!
  • If you don't understand a question, its OK to say so. Ask the interviewer to explain what they mean.
  • Try to avoid answering questions with just 'yes' or 'no'
  • When you have finished the interview, the interviewer will ask if you have any questions of your own. Make sure you have some prepared. They could be:
    • What sort of training will I get?
    • Will there be opportunities to take more responsibility in the future?
    • How would I know if I am doing well - how will my progress be reviewed?
    • What is the salary? - You should only ask this question if it is not mentioned on the job advert.

At the end of the interview, thank the interviewers and ask when you will find out the result of the interview.

You may get a phone call or letter offering you the job. Make sure you reply and let the employer know you are going to take it. Even if you decide not to accept the offer, be sure to let the employer know.

If you didn't get the job, don't let it get you down. Turn it into a positive experience and view it as practice for next time. You can contact the employer and ask for feedback so you can improve for your next interview.

Advice and Support

You can always talk to a Youth Support Worker.

Call: 01709 334905

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