Erfolgreiche Vorstellungsgespräche

Firstly, congratulations on getting an interview - obviously our tips on writing the perfect CV and covering letter worked!

So what now?

1. Be prepared

• Start by finding out as much as you can about the company you'll be meeting with
• Research the company products, staff, culture, clients and competitors
• Look on the company's website, ask your recruitment consultant for any other information you feel you need and carefully read over the job description they have sent you
• Make sure you are certain of the interview structure (some companies run panel interviews, others are one-to-one, will there be any testing?) and are fully prepared for all elements of it
• Get a map and plan your journey carefully, allowing plenty of time for any unforeseen travel delays

2. Question yourself

• It's worth taking some time to think about the questions you are likely to be asked and the responses you need to give to them.  Some of the most common interview questions are:
  
  • Tell me about yourself
  • Why do you want this job?
  • What are your long-term aims?  Or where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
  • What can you bring to this job/company?
  • What are your strengths/weaknesses?
  • What's your greatest achievement so far?
  • How would your colleagues describe you?
  • Why should we give you this job?
    
• For each question, have your answer ready and prepared in your mind - focusing on a positive spin to each question. For example, for the strengths/weaknesses question, pick a weakness such as not having great MSO skills, that you can sketch over by saying you'd like more training in it (unless you are going for an MSO-centric role, of course!).
• It's also worth keeping in mind some questions that you can ask your interviewer (there is nothing worse than being asked if you have any questions at the end of an interview and going completely blank).  You want to give the impression that you are keen to get the job and that, once hired, you would be keen to make good progress within the company.  Some good questions to ask include:
  
  • Can you describe a typical day?
  • What training do you offer?
  • What kind of opportunities are there for growth in this company?

3. Expect the unexpected

• Many interviewers (especially in creative or marketing companies) will deliberately use the tactic of asking you unusual or bizarre questions to catch you off your guard.  This is so they can see how you deal with unexpected incidents and how well you can think on your feet.
• If you are asked any awkward or difficult questions, don't be afraid to ask for clarification before you answer - it's far better to take your time and think before you answer than plough on regardless and say something stupid.

4. First impressions are everything

• Dress smartly and make sure you are well-groomed
• Make sure you know the full name and job title of your interviewer(s)
• Give them a firm handshake when you meet them and look them directly in the eye when you speak to them
• Watch your body language - sit up straight, don't fidget
• Speak clearly and slowly when giving your answers and give them fairly brief and to the point - no rambling!
• Smile and try to relax and enjoy the interviewing experience

Good luck!