CAREER PURSUIT

RESEARCH Carry out background checks and research on the company you have applied to work for − understand their core objectives and values and try to incorporate some of these findings into interview questions. Such information will also allow you to answer key business-related questions that the interviewer may have and will also show your commitment to securing employment, by increasing your efforts to provide additional company information. DRESS CODE Ensuring that your attire is right is really important − first impressions matter a lot. If you are unable to access work clothes because of financial difficulties, there is a variety of support available − speak to your careers advisor/consultant who will give you the best advice about what help you can get. CV It’s always good practice to bring along a copy of your CV. The interviewer might have it already, but if they don’t, having a copy will demonstrate to them that you are organised and well-prepared. It is also important that you are comfortable with the content of your CV and are able to clarify any work/education discrepancies and match previous experience/qualifications with the work you have applied for. DOCUMENTATION Have you been asked by the employer or the recruiter to bring specific documentation to the interview? If you are unsure, read back any emails or letters you received in relation to the interview. If you're still unsure, it's best practise to carry the records with you. IDENTIFY YOUR IDENTITY It is important to know what your unique selling points are .or how your experience, skills and/or passion will help you in the position you have applied for. It is important that you cross-reference the initial advertisement, job description and person specification to ensure that you are confident that you can articulate your reasons for applying, and that you can add additional value to the company. MOCK INTERVIEWS Where possible, source opportunities with friends/family members, business associates or career coaches/consultants that can help you best prepare for the interview. Having an interview with a company of a similar nature to the one you have applied for, or a comparable role/position, is always a great way to do this. Practise is so important − you should practise interviewing and build upon your technique and take on board feedback from those you practise with. TRAVEL Ensure you know how to get to the place of interview, the time it will take you and which mode of transport you will need on that day. It might even be appropriate to do a mock run to ensure you know the exact location and the likely time it will take for you to get there. It is also advised to ensure that you have a contingency plan for your journey to and from the interview in case your initial route/travel plan is compromised. INTERVIEW CHECKLIST C A R E E R P U R S U I T Sometimes being prepared for your interview can be a deciding factor in whether you are successful in securing employment or not. Also, the importance of good planning and preparation can help alleviate fears and worries that can greatly help with self-confidence and belief in turn. So it's always good to check that you've completed the necessary steps before your interview. Provided by Firmin Consultancy − a specialist independent management consultancy practice. 53 2 0 2 0