Before your interview find out everything you can about the company, and try to obtain a copy of their annual report.

Re-read your application, thinking through your career history and the questions you might be asked. Also prepare some questions to ask the interviewer(s).

To do well at the interview you’ll not only need to convince the interviewer you’re technically qualified for the job but also that you’re motivated to perform the job well. It’s equally important to show you can fit in with the company's culture, organisational structure and the people with whom you’ll be working.

Dress smartly for the interview and to avoid arriving late, set off earlier than you need to and when you arrive, be courteous to all employees of the company.

At the interview

Be positive about yourself and your abilities - but be concise – don’t waffle.

Questions you may be asked

Your answers may vary according to the job or company, so you should go through your responses just before each interview.

Why do you want this job?

Think carefully about this. Stress the positive aspects which attracted you to apply for this position. Don’t mention any negative aspects of your current job or the one in question.

What qualities do you think will be required for this job?

The advertisement for the vacancy may give some indication but you should also think of other qualities that may be required, such as leadership ability, or supervisory, communication, interpersonal, problem solving or analytical skills.

What can you contribute?

This is your chance to shine. Highlight your achievements in your previous position(s) relevant to the vacancy for which you’re applying.

Why do you want to work for this company?

Emphasise the positive reasons why you want to join the company, but avoid aspects such as more money or shorter hours as these won’t endear you to a prospective employer.

What do you know about this company ?

This is your opportunity to impress the interviewer with your knowledge of their company. Offer a rundown of their products, services, sales figures, news, company figures, customer profile, etc.

What interests you about our product (or service)?

Again, your research into the company should help you answer this.

What can we (the new company) offer that your previous company can’t?

Tread carefully here! Again don’t mention money. Stress opportunities for personal growth, new challenges, etc.

Questions to ask the interviewer

The interview is a two-way process. The company representative(s) interviewing you will want to find out whether you’re suitable for the position and you’ll want to find out if that company and position are right for you, so ensure you have enough information to decide whether or not you want the job. For example, consider asking:

• What will be my responsibilities?
• Where will I fit into the overall organisational structure?
• Whom will I report to?
• Where does he/she fit in the structure?
• Who will report to me?
• How experienced are they?
• What do you expect me to do in the first six months?
• What level of performance do you expect from me?
• Who are your customers?
• Where is the company going? Upwards? Expansion plans?
• What are the chances of advancement/promotion in this position? When?
• What will be my salary, benefits and bonuses? [Don’t bring this up too early in the interview - wait until they are sold on you.]
• Will travelling be required in this position?
• Will relocation be required now or in the future?
• What training do you provide?
• When will you decide on the appointment?
• What’s the next step?

Next: What factors could cost you the interview/job?
Previous: Preparing your CV