First Impressions

• First impressions count (Statistics show that 93% of employers make the hiring decision in the first 7 minutes of any interview.)
• Look the part
• Firm handshake
• Turn up on time
• Engage eye contact

Eyes on you

• Candidates must remember that eye contact is everything! This is the one interview technique that is so easily fixed. The interviewer is not the ‘Medusa’ and as first impressions, eye contact is IMPERATIVE!!
• Candidates need to make sure they practice eye contact in general. A great way to do this is present to yourself in the mirror.

Appearance is everything

• Candidates need to remember that they only get one chance to make a first impression and this counts for a lot, turning up looking like a “rag and bone, man or woman” is not acceptable. Many candidates turn up wearing incorrect attire for interviews, they may have forgotten to polish their shoes or they may not be well groomed and this counts greatly toward how candidates are perceived at interview. If you are going to a corporate, dress as they would; Suit & tie etc. If going to a digital role the rule is generally smart casual.
• Candidates need to take care in their appearance and knowing their market is the most important way to do this.. If in doubt, find it out, don’t be afraid to ask. (Ask us and we can help)

Prepare to be prepared
(Fail to prepare and prepare to fail)

• Candidates need to be prepared. Generally a lack of research on the company and the role are the main stumbling blocks for candidates but in this digital age where information is so readily available, candidates should be looking up their interviewer.
• Take time out to research the company, role and interviewer. If there are any related topics to research with regard to the role, i.e. if the role is for Nintendo, research the latest Nintendo news, products and history for example.
• Prepare 3-5 questions to ask in the interview and take a note pad with you. Anticipate questions and prepare your answers and examples of your work.

Attitude

• Candidates must have a good attitude. If candidates arrive with an attitude problem whether it be them being; rude, angry, closed or unapproachable this is a sure fire way to come across badly in an interview.
• Leave it out….. side, candidates must leave any personal issues or grievances, outside the door. Make sure when entering an interview you have a smile on your face and you go in exuding confidence, happiness and most of all easily approachable.
• Body language – do you look interested, are you displaying passion and enthusiasm . Ask for their reservations at this stage.

Lack of questioning

• Interviewers expect candidates to have a pre-prepared set of questions regarding anything from the company to their cultural fit in the organisation. This is a standard perquisite for most interviews and if candidates are engaging the interviewer and showing their knowledge around the role, it shows a lack of interest.
• Prepare a list of at least ten question to ask, if you need to take a list with you, do. You can never have too many questions and the more engaging, flattering and clever the more chance of getting that role. (Also be prepared for competency questioning)