Helen Hendrickson’s (Central Communication Consultancy) Top Interview Tips

• First impressions matter…70 % of all information we absorb is through the visual channel. Dress smartly, look bright and attentive, and speak clearly and confidently. Only 7% of the interviewer's opinion of you is formed by what you say – i.e. the content and the knowledge aspects … 93 % rests on how you look, act and sound (tone of voice, accent, pronunciation) These aspects are covered in Central Communication Consultancy’s Elocution coaching programmes.
• Find out what kind of interview it will be so you can prepare - Different skills are required for the ‘trial by buffet'! The presentation, the group discussion or the panel interview. Different interviewers will have a different view on the subject, and agendas/emphasis that match their role.
• When it comes to organisation of the content of your answers think bullet points and avoid waffle and jargon…. the same skills we use to prepare a good slide in PowerPoint, Give an example of the practical application/implementation of an idea or skill where possible. Describe the outcomes in terms of achievements and business benefits to show that you are focused- points… Quote real examples of when you've used certain skills - just saying you've got a skill isn't enough.
• Prioritise WHAT you say with what emphasis… i.e. number of illustrations/point per topic... according to the needs of the student/employee role and subject area. You are bound to be asked to give an overview of key issues/movements etc within the field/work area; 
• Most importantly! However, revise the person specification. Try and briskly cover the essential but elaborate on the desirable illustrations from your cv, these set you apart!
• Be aware of duties n the job description and roles plus core key skills and ‘transferable skills like IT competencies, Communication skills etc.
• prepare answers for the main questions - for example, why do you want the job, what are your strengths and weaknesses, what are the main tasks in this job. In some interviews there s a simple formula of asking one question per person spec essential pot. So put yourself in their shoes in advance and plan possible responses. This will help you deliver your message clearly and effectively with an air of calm professionalism.
• Think of your answers as summaries with an introductory orienting statement to clue the listener in, embellishment /example in the middle, concluding with summary outcome/benefit at end. Avoid jargon and acronyms e.g. CRM
• Be clear, speak well without slang, control your rate of speeches pauses, don’t rush.
• Make eye contact with all panel members in turn, randomly when answering one person's question-it shows your group communication skills take your time when answering the questions. Make sure you understand the question and take your time if you need to think. - Ask for clarification rather than muddle it.
• Be ahead of the game in your research so you can showed off when it comes to their turn to ask YOU if you have any questions. Base your questions on visionary topics e.g. business priorities/plan of the company /key projects and growth areas.  
• Make sure you know your CV content and answer with honesty and integrity sell yourself No-one else is going to! Be positive about yourself and your experiences.
• Prepare some questions to ask at the end - use it as an opportunity to find out more about the role and the company you should always ask at least one question, to show your enthusiasm and interest in the job. If you are worried about forgetting them, there is nothing wrong with bringing them into your interview – it shows you are prepared.
• Do not ask about money or benefits just yet! Wait for them to as you about your expectations regarding remuneration or compensation in the US. When discussing salary, know your market and use your last salary as a starting point plus second guess the standard and quantity of completion and start by quoting a little higher than this.
• Turn off your mobile! Treat the interviewers with respect and give them your undivided attention. Watch out for nervous ticks and habits...!
• Keep  answers focused on what you can do for the employer, not what they can do for you. Use we/our team/the group as well as just l as I to start sentences.

What not to do:

• Don't swear or use slang words
• Don't slouch in your seat or do anything else that makes you look disinterested
• Do not lie! The interviewer may see through you. Even if you get the job, your employer can dismiss you if they find out
• Don't let your nerves show too much
• Don’t use first name terms unless told you should
• Do not be arrogant and assume you have the job
• Don't discuss controversial topics such as religion, politics
• Do not read from notes, slides or your CV.
• Don't criticise former employers or colleagues
• Do not argue with the interviewer, no matter what.

Plan for difficult questions

If you have gap in your work history try to focus on other activities and interests that you were doing during that time.

If short on formal qualifications talk about the skills you used in your personal such as communicating, organising or budgeting.  

If you are asked about weaknesses, just mention one! Choose something small that is not important to the job. Turn it into strength 

Here are some examples of questions you can ask: Jump on the opportunity to ask different questions, this will demonstrate your interest in the company and in the role, will give you an opportunity to gather the information to take the right decision about changing job and, last but not least, will give less time to the recruiter to ask you potentially tricky or difficult questions to answer.

• Can you describe a typical day?
• What training do you offer?
• Ask about something you read about in your research – such as a new product or service
• Who will I be working with?
• What would I be doing in the first few weeks?
• How do you see the role developing?
• When will you let me know the outcome of the interview

Here are some questions to avoid until you have been offered a job:

• How much will I be paid?
• How much holiday will I get?
• What kind of pension scheme do you offer there a bonus scheme or any other benefits?