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helpful interview tips

Finding employment can be a stressful, emotional and challenging time. That is why we at cavanagh & associates ltd want to make things as easy and rewarding for our candidates as we possibly can.

Helpful and Important points to remember when attending an interview

• Conduct research on the organisation - look up their website.
• Ensure you know the interviewer(s) full name, the correct pronunciation and his/her title.
• Confirm the location and timing for the interview. Know where you are going. Plan to arrive to your interview at least five minutes early
• Turn off your mobile prior to the interview.
• Stand rather than sit when waiting for your interviewer at reception as this projects a confident and professional manner.
• Avoid smoking prior to an interview.
• Always wear appropriate business attire to interviews.
• Take a copy of your Curriculum Vitae to the interview.
• Follow the interviewer(s) lead as to where to be seated, sit upright, and look alert at all times, know when to talk and when to listen. Ensure you look the interviewer in the eye. If there is more than one interviewer, be sure to maintain eye contact whilst listening or answering questions.
• Visualise yourself confidently answering questions and focus on a positive description of all experiences. Believe in yourself and project your strongest attributes.
• Do not initiate the ‘salary’ topic. (The consultant is there to do the negotiating and discussions for you).
• When answering questions avoid using a simple "yes" or "no". Use the HOW, WHY, WHEN, WHERE, WHAT format i.e. how you approached a situation, why you used that particular method or action, and what was the outcome or achievement.
• Study the Job Description, taking time to anticipate potential questions and those you want to ask.
• Always ask questions i.e about the job, organisation, management style, career progression opportunities.
• Never be derogatory or ‘bad mouth’ previous managers or companies.
• Once an interview is completed contact your consultant to discuss feedback about the interview. Telephone cavanagh & associates ltd on (09) 377 1190.