Interviews

Interview tests and assessments

If you have been watching the 'Apprentice' series on TV, you'll know that some employers have intensive selection processes - not just forms and interviews. Of course, the 'Apprentice' doesn't reflect how the average employer makes a decision, but increasingly employers are using methods such as interview tests and assessments, group interviews, presentations and role plays, as ways of finding out as much as possible about you - so be prepared.

Make an effort to find out what you will be facing at your interview. You can find out more about what you may expect and how to prepare for it by using the www.prospects.ac.uk site.

Read any information sent to you by the employer. Find out as much as you can about them by looking on their website, or in trade directories in libraries (librarians will be able to help you). If you can't find their website, why not 'google' the company and see what results you get - they may not have their own site, but be part of a group or trade association site..

What kind of questions might they ask you? Look at the application form and the job description - what kinds of things are they looking for? Sometimes you are asked about your strengths and weaknesses at interviews - think about how you would answer. Ask your PA or someone you know if you're not sure.

Get your questions ready. Is there anything about the job or the company that you'd like to know?

Make sure your interview outfit is clean and ironed and shoes are polished. (On the day, keep jewellery and make-up moderate and try to wear a suit or smart/casual outfit.)

Make sure you know how to get there before you go

Interview Day

• First impressions count, so make sure your appearance and personal hygiene is good - hair well groomed, nails clean etc.
• Take any documents you need with you - certificates, Record of Achievement, Progress File, passport, references.
• Make sure that you know the name of the person you are seeing at the interview.
• Turn off your mobile phone before you arrive.
• Try and get to the interview 15 minutes before it's due to start.
• When you arrive, make sure that the receptionist knows you're there.
• Don't chew gum or smoke!
• Be polite and friendly to everyone you meet, and be prepared to shake hands.
• Don't sit down in the interview until you're asked to do so. Don't slump in the chair - sit comfortably, with your hands in your lap and your bags/folders at the side of your chair.
• Look at the interviewer when they're talking to you.
• If you don't understand a question you've been asked, it's OK to say so. Ask the interviewer to explain what they mean.
• Try not to give yes or no answers to questions. If you don't know the answer to a question they're asking, it's OK to say this to the interviewer (do try to keep this to a minimum though).

Remember, the interviewers aren't trying to catch you out. They're trying to find the right person for the job, and that could be you.

You can get more info from your Personal Adviser or at Connexions centres.