When it comes to attending interviews the old saying is true: ‘failure to prepare is preparing to fail’. Interviews are one of the most crucial aspects of any person’s career. They are not only key to securing a new job but they offer great experience and awareness about other companies and how your career could progress in another environment.

We arrange thousands of interviews each year and preparing yourself and understanding the interview process often makes all the difference.

Prior to the interview

It is important to never go into an interview appearing half hearted. You can discuss where you are in your career and your thought process but even if you are in two minds about the idea of moving company or start to get cold feet prior to an interview, remain focused.

Investigate and research the company and the person who will be interviewing you. Don’t limit yourself to looking at the company’s website; search online about the company and even the person you will be meeting. Prepare questions and have an agenda on what you would like to know, what is important to you and give the interviewer the chance to think about their answers. This interview could be the start of something special.

During the interview

Making an effort in the interview will give the interviewer the chance to be interested in you. This will encourage them to appeal to you and demonstrate why their company could be the best place for your career. It is equally important to remember that it’s a small world and you never know when you may come across the interviewer again.

Make your career decision once you have all the facts. This means preparing for the interview and remembering the importance of making a good first impression. If you win the day and secure the job offer, you will have created the luxury of choice and by doing so you will be able to reflect on what decision is best for you, your family and your career.

Who am I? What do I do?

Take the time to reflect on your CV and career. Consider your strengths, examples of past achievements and even areas where you can still develop further. Consider the perception others may have about you and know the areas where you are particularly strong. No one is perfect so saying or thinking you have no weaknesses is a weakness itself. Going into an interview with a massive ego or chip on your shoulder won’t win over anyone. You can be confident but be genuine, motivated and show a warm interest in the person and company you are meeting.

Show me the money!

Only focusing on the money element is never a good way to conduct yourself in an interview. Some people say money isn’t important, some feel a career move is all about money. The facts are that money or being paid in line with a job role and your experience is important but it doesn’t mean it should be the only thing you want to know. Park the money topic and focus on the real aspects of the job and what you need in this stage of your career and for the future.

If you focus on the interview itself you offer the interviewer the chance to get to know what you can do, the value you can add and how you will fit into their team and company. You will then have given yourself the best chance to secure the best financial offer.

Don’t forget

• Consider your appearance;
• Plan your journey;
• If you think you might be late even if only 5 minutes, phone ahead or drop a text; common courtesy is always appreciated; and
• Take along a pen and paper for obvious reasons.

An interview is about creating an opportunity for yourself and it could well change your career so it pays dividends to be prepared.