How to have a successful interview

It is usual for most interviews to begin with the interviewer introducing the company and talking about the role before they begin questioning you. Then they will work through your CV looking at relevant experience and questioning you on your suitability as well as career aspirations. You will normally have an opportunity to ask questions at the end.

• An interview is only a normal conversation with a purpose so don’t be nervous
• A normal interview consists of the interviewer talking 20% and listening 80% of the time.
• First impressions are important; make sure you greet your interviewer with a strong firm handshake and a smile!
• Speak clearly and confidently during the interview and maintain eye contact
• Body language is important, do not fidget!
• Be familiar with your cv, your current performance against targets and achievements to date and be prepared to answer any questions about these
• Listen to the questions carefully and answer them confidently but remember to be concise, do not go into a full life story!
• Concentrate on positive achievements eg increase in percentage profit, on a project or sub contract, early project completion against programme, and how they were achieved.
• Find some common ground / acquaintances and translate back to your answers.
• Be prepared to answer questions about why you are looking to leave your current role and remember to remain positive and complimentary about your current and previous employers or managers.
• Demonstrate your interest in the role by asking questions about the role and company enabling the interviewer to give you additional information.
• End the interview by thanking the interviewer for their time and asking what the next stage is.

If you would like additional help or advice on how to have a successful interview contact the AllTek Team and one of our Consultants will be happy to assist. Contact info@AllTekrecruit.com or telephone your nearest office.

• South West: - 0117 905 8747
• South East: - 020 755 67150
• South Central: - 023 80 682662

Other helpful guides:

CV Writing:

• The Purpose of a CV
• How to prepare and write a CV
• Download a handy CV template here

Interview Technique:

• Preparing for an interview
• How to have a successful interview
• How to answer interview questions