Interview Tips & Advice.

Everyone has that first interview that will either change your life forever or a learning curve to do it better next time. At Humba-HR- Consultants we believe in getting it right the first time therefore here are some exciting pointers that will assist you to get there. If you're counting down the days till your next job interview, these helpful hints will help you get in the right mood so you can leave a lasting impression on the interviewers.

• Do your research

Fail to plan and you plan to fail. You are certain to be asked specific questions about the company, so make sure you've done your homework on things like their last year's profits and latest product launches. Also take a look at the latest developments in the industry so you can converse with confidence.

• Practice your answers

Although there is no set format that every job interview will follow, there are some questions that you can almost guarantee will crop up. You should prepare answers to some of the most common interview questions about your personal strengths and weaknesses, as well as being able to explain why you would be the best person for the job.

•   Look the part

Appearances shouldn't matter, but the plain fact is that you are often judged before you've even uttered a word. Make sure your shoes are polished, your clothes fit correctly and that your accessories are subtle. Dressing one level above the job you're applying for shows a desire to succeed.

•          Stay calm

Good preparation is the key to staying in control. Plan your route, allowing extra time for any unexpected delays, and get everything you need to take with you ready the night before. Remember to speak clearly, smile and remember that your interviewers are just normal people, and they may be nervous too.

NB: Ask questions

You should always have some questions for your interviewer to demonstrate your interest in the position. Prepare a minimum of five questions, some which will give you more information about the job, and some which delve deeper into the culture and goals of the company. Always find more information for in interviews they continually tweak questions to retain competence.

NB: While you may have researched the company numerous times and have your notes in perfect order, interview pressure can still got the best of most people. Here are a few tips that will help you develop those iron nerves you've always wanted.

Before you go to your job interview, it's good to have a few practice runs so you don't freeze like a rabbit in the headlights. Our Virtual Job Interview will let you know whether your answers are on the right track.

Focusing on a few steps when at an interview can help break down the process into manageable steps to ensure you're convincing in your delivery.

First impressions count;
Greet your interviewer with a smile and firm handshake. Give eye contact. Try to make small talk during the walk from the reception area to the interview room. You have to sell yourself before you can sell anything else and the first 30 seconds are when the interviewer subconsciously makes decisions about whether they like you or not and whether you will fit into the team.

Be prepared...
Re-read your CV and the job advert description just before the interview. Do your research thoroughly: Look at the company web site or obtain literature. You may be asked about the salary you are after so make sure you research that as well.

Don’t waffle!
Answer questions properly – even if you need a few moments’ silence to collect your thoughts. It’s better to say you need a minute to think about your answer rather than speak instantly and regret it afterwards.

Why should they hire you?
Most job adverts will list qualities they’re looking for – a team worker, a good communicator – so it’s up to you to think of examples of how you can demonstrate these skills. Be ready to talk about your knowledge, experience, abilities and skills. Have at least three strong points about yourself that you can relate to the company and job on offer.

Be positive:
Your interviewer will be thinking about what it would be like to work with you, so the last thing they’ll want to hear is you talking about your boss or current colleagues behind their back. Interviewers like to see someone who enjoys a challenge and is enthusiastic.

Remember your body language:
It is not what you say, but how you say it. During the interview, do not fold your arms and lean back or look to the floor! Sit upright and try to maintain good eye contact. Use your hands and lean forward when making a point. Many people cannot think and control their body language at the same time, which is why you need to prepare.

Expect the unexpected:
Your interviewer may try to catch you off guard: A survey by Humba-HR-Consultants has revealed that 90 per cent of employers ask ‘killer’ questions in interviews. It is impossible to plan for every difficult question, such as “How would your colleagues describe you?” but try to appear relaxed and in control. Ask the interviewer to repeat the question if necessary but do not evade it.

Develop rapport:
Show energy, a sense of humour and smile. It’s infectious, being positive and enthusiastic to bring some hype into that nerve wrecking environment.  Ask your interviewer questions about themselves and any issues the business is facing.

Clarify anything you are unsure of:
if you are not certain what are meant by a particular question, ask for clarification. At the end, ask the interviewer if there is anything else he or she needs to know about. Do not be afraid to ask when you are likely to hear if you have been successful or not.

 Remember your manners:
It is better to choose than to be chosen. Tell the interviewer why you are interested in the company and job opportunity. Ask them for a business card and follow it up by sending a “thank-you” e-mail or letter, saying how much you enjoyed meeting them and how interested you are. Take the opportunity to detail the key advantages you bring.

By following the three PS – Prepare, Practice and Perform, you can turn yourself into the best candidate who would be difficult to turn down. *Always remember to let the interviewer lead so that you can follow attentively and diligently.