Interview preparation: Strategies for success

Preparing for an interview can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies, you can turn it into an opportunity to shine. In this blog, we’ll explore essential tips and techniques to help you stand out from the competition. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a fresh graduate, these strategies will boost your confidence, ensure you are prepared and increase your chances of landing that dream job. Let’s dive in and get you interview-ready! 

 

Get to Know the Company Before Your Interview 

Spending time researching the company before your interview is crucial. This preparation will boost your confidence in answering questions about the company’s operations, target market, and products or services. It also enables you to ask insightful questions during the interview. 

Start by exploring the company’s website, particularly the ‘About Us’ section. Additionally, check their social media profiles or request an information pack via email or post. 

Here are some tips on what to look for during your research: 

• What the company does, makes, or sells: The ‘About Us’ section is a great place to start to find out what the company are about. 

• Who their customers are. 

• The type of organisation it is. 

• Details about the job you’re applying for. 

• How your skills and experience align with the job and the company. 

 

Get Ready for Your Interview 

Discover the interview format in advance to ensure you’re fully prepared. 

If you have a disability, employers are required to make reasonable adjustments to facilitate your interview. Contact them beforehand to arrange any necessary accommodations, such as building access. 

Determine the number of interviewers and their roles within the company. This will help you anticipate the types of questions they might ask. 

Knowing the expected duration of the interview can give you insight into its level of detail. Additionally, find out if you will need to take a test or give a presentation. 

 

Plan your journey 

Note down the date, time, and location of your interview. Plan your route in advance and consider doing a trial run the day before to gauge the travel time. If needed, ask the employer for directions, bus routes, or parking information. It’s also wise to have an alternative travel plan in case of unexpected issues, like roadblocks or train cancellations. 

 

 Projecting a Professional Image 

Choosing your interview attire depends on the type of job you’re applying for, but it’s generally best to dress smartly. Once you’ve decided on your outfit, prepare it the day before. You don’t need to buy new clothes; just ensure your appearance is neat, clean, and tidy.  

Dressing well for an interview boosts your confidence, showing respect for the opportunity and helping you feel more self-assured. This confidence can improve your communication, posture, and engagement with interviewers, allowing you to better showcase your skills and make a strong impression. 

 

Information to take with you: 

• Bring a copy of your CV or application form for reference. 

• Prepare notes or cue cards if you think you might need prompts during the interview. 

• Gather any items the employer has requested, such as references, certificates, or your driving licence. 

• Review the job advert or any information you have before the interview to refresh your memory. Take it with you in case you need to refer to it on the day. 

 

Prepare for potential interview questions 

You might be asked to provide examples of your past work and accomplishments. Ensure that the examples you share go beyond or differ from those on your original application form. Before the interview, identify the skills and experience required for the job and consider what you’ve done that could serve as an example for each one. 

Standard questions to prepare for:

• Why do you want to work for us? 

• Why do you want this job? 

• What do you know about our company? 

• Why did you choose this profession? 

• What are your strengths / weaknesses? 

• What do you like / dislike about your current job role? 

• Why are you looking forward to a new position? 

• What has been your greatest achievement to date? 

• How would you describe yourself? 

• How would your friends and colleagues describe you? 

• What are your future aspirations? 

• What can you offer to your new team / company? 

 

Interview Advice and Best Practices 

• Walk into the room with confidence 

• Greet with a firm handshake and introduce yourself 

• Smile warmly 

• Be courteous and friendly 

• Maintain eye contact with the interviewer 

• Show interest and engage by asking questions as well as answering them 

• Provide detailed answers, avoiding simple “yes” or “no” responses 

• Be honest in your responses 

• Request clarification if you don’t understand a question 

• Speak clearly and articulately 

• Highlight your strengths and maintain a positive attitude 

 

Getting Ready for a Phone Interview 

Have your personal information and the job advert in front of you for easy reference, and be clear about your goal and reason for calling. To get comfortable with phone interviews, create a list of likely questions and ask a friend to conduct a mock interview with you. Carefully prepare your answers, writing them in note form using key words and phrases from your personal statement. Avoid writing out your answers in full, as this can make them sound scripted. 

 

The phone call 

Find a quiet, undisturbed location for your telephone interview. Have your CV, cover letter, job advertisement, and notes in front of you. Be ready to jot down key points during the call. The best times to call are between 9am and 11:30am in the morning, and between 2pm and 4pm in the afternoon, as these are typically less busy periods. 

Standing during the interview can help you sound more confident and project a positive, professional image. It’s also a good idea to call a friend beforehand to shake off any last-minute nerves and test your voice. 

 

Responding to questions 

Pay close attention to the interviewer’s questions and comments, and respond appropriately. If a question is unclear, politely ask for clarification. When answering, try to provide examples rather than just saying “yes” or “no.” If you don’t know the answer, it’s okay to admit it. 

Keep your responses concise and avoid criticizing previous employers or colleagues. Always maintain a positive attitude. 

 

If you are interested in learning while earning a salary, gaining valuable work experience and nationally recognised qualifications, then have a look at our apprenticeship vacancies and see what opportunities are available in your area. For more help, please contact us on 0800 783 2545 or email enquiries@pgon.co.uk.