Once you have submitted your CV and managed to secure an interview, what’s next?  Preparing for an interview, if done right, can be worse than the real thing!  I’m now going to give you 7 of the most valuable tips on preparing for an interview.

1. Research, research and research – It’s so important to stress the importance of thoroughly researching the company and role.  I’m a fan of the UK Apprentice TV show and it always amazes me during the final stages, how many of the Apprentices have not got a clue what Sir Alan Sugar does after ten or so weeks on the show.  Obviously, he will be more geared towards the applicants with the most passion and knowledge of what he does.
2. It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it – the interview is now your personal sales and marketing pitch!  Being confident without sounding cocky about your ability to do the job will make your interviewer more at ease recommending you to his work colleagues, as you have the ability to sell yourself.  There are lots of candidates out there that come across unsure of themselves, and therefore this will always impact how they will potentially be perceived in the workplace.
3. Never assume – whatever you do, do not assume anything.  If you are unsure about something, just be honest and ask before the interview.  If the answer is not satisfactory to you, you can always bring it up again during the interview.
4. Examples – simply saying you are good at something does not mean you have ticked the boxes and therefore will be offered the job.  For example, if asked about your strengths and weaknesses, do not say statements like “I’m a good communicator and great a problem solver.”  Your interviewer needs to be convinced by you, therefore have your audio script prepared to demonstrate how good you are at whatever you say you are.  Facts and figures will work a treat. Make it easy for the interviewer; create the picture you want to create in the interviewer’s head.
5. Questions – No questions, no job offer!  Alternately, having some well thought-out questions highlighting any gaps or issues, and potentially solutions to problems will put you in good stead.
6. Interview dating – who’s recruiting who here?  When preparing for your interview, imagine the interviewer needs you more than you need them.  Reverse psychology can help get you clear on what you have to offer your potential employer and why they should recruit you.  With this in mind, don’t be surprised if they are overzealous in convincing you how great the opportunity will be for you.
7. Body language – they say never judge a book by its cover, however for the interview, that saying should be totally ignored!  Body language probably counts towards over 60% of interview success.  Consider this exercise – make a conscious effort and look at your body language including posture when answering questions daily.  Analyse your body language, what is your body language saying that you are not saying verbally?  The results can be a real eye opener.

David Walters has analysed the results from preparing hundreds of candidates for interviews and from the results, we developed a tried and tested formula for successfully interviewing.  We are now helping professional people with our independent Interview Preparation service to prepare for job interviews.  For further information email careercoach@david-walters.co.uk

Best Wishes for 2010!