Many interviews can be over even before they’ve even begun due to a lack of care and attention to basic factors!
In the current job market, presentation and preparation are especially key to giving you the best chance against your competition at interview stage.
Interview Check List
Task - In the Days before the Interview | Achieved |
Draw a line down the centre of a piece of paper. On the left side, make a bulleted list of what the employer is looking for based on the job specification. On the right hand side, make a bulleted list of the qualities you possess that fit those requirements | Y / N |
Research the company, the industry and the competition | Y / N |
Prepare your 60-second personal statement: Your answer to the, "Tell me about yourself," question | Y / N |
Write down at least five success stories to answer behavioural interview questions ("Tell me about a time when…" or "Give me an example of a time…") | Y / N |
List 10 questions to ask the interviewer about the job, the company and the industry | Y / N |
Task - Interview Day | Achieved |
Do you look professional? Check yourself in the mirror; part of your confidence will come from looking your best. | Y / N |
Carry these items to the interview: | |
· Several copies of your CV on quality paper | Y / N |
· A copy of your references | Y / N |
· A pad of paper on which to take notes | Y / N |
· Directions to the interview site | Y / N |
Relax – this is a checklist to make sure you stay focused before, during and after the interview. Creating a cheat sheet will help you feel more prepared and confident. You shouldn't memorize what's on the sheet or check it off during the interview. You should use your cheat sheet to remind you of key facts. Here are some suggestions for what you should include on it.