Interview advice

Here at Bluestones Supply Chain, we understand how daunting the prospect of an interview can be. It can fill some people with absolute dread, but we are here to help! Here are some really useful tips on how to make an interview a complete success and to drive the nerves away.

  • Remember the interview is a two-way process – You are chasing your ideal job and they are chasing their ideal candidate. In short, the interview is about you checking if they are right for you as well as them checking if you are right for their organisation.
  • Preparation – Remember the phrase, “fail to prepare, prepare to fail”. This is never truer than when you are going for an interview. Ensuring you do the relevant research and preparation will eliminate nerves and make you feel more confident when meeting your interviewers.

Key areas of preparation should include:

– Knowing who you are meeting with
– Where you are going. Prepare your journey so you arrive at least 10 minutes before.
– Look at the potential employer’s website, research what they do so you are ready for the question, “what do you know about the company”?
– Study the job/person spec – so you are fully aware of what they are looking for and know what skills and experience to sell during your interview
– Pre-prepare questions you would like to ask. Centre this around information which is not included on the job description, such as progression, current team members etc
– Have any items ready that have been requested to bring with you to the interview

  • On the day of the interview – Give yourself plenty of time to get ready and get to the interview, arriving at least 10 minutes before. In addition, re-read your CV (to remind yourself of what you have included) and the job description. Copies should be taken with you to the interview as well.
  • Conquer the nerves – Remember it is natural to be nervous. An easy way to overcome these is to remember, you have got as far as an interview, so they have seen something they like.
  • Make a strong first impression – Dress smartly, smile, give a firm handshake and display confident body language.
  • Think about the question before you answer – Take a second to digest the question. Answer questions fully, giving real examples. Include examples of your personal experiences.
  • Be positive – Even when describing difficulties you have encountered, explain what you learned from dealing with the specific problem.
  • When leaving – Thank the interviewer for their time and ask what the follow-up stage will be.
Definite interview don’ts

  • Lie or exaggerate
  • Lose your temper
  • Criticise your previous employer
  • Fidget or slouch
  • Swear
  • Interrupt

Hopefully, this information will help you shine in your interview.