Things you should know before you go to an interview
Job Interview Readiness
part 1
Winning an interview is harder than getting a job offer. But having won it, there is still work to be done to ensure that the outcome is an offer of employment. You must get it right if you want to be in control, whether or not you decide to take the job. In this Part I, the Interest Zone, outlines what you should do before the interview to maximize your chances.
Finding your way
An early task is finding out how to get to the interview-you may need to ask someone or consult a map to find the exact location. In numerous cases a job seeker is late to the interview because he/she was lost or could not locate the exact place. You should also know how long the journey will take from where you are to the interview location. Consider, too, where you will park (if you drive). These are potential delays you are better off getting out of the way.
Researching the company
There is simply no excuse for not finding out as much as you can about the company where you are scheduled for an interview. Being asked 'What do you know about us?' and replying 'Not a lot' reflects very badly on you. It is essential to know as much about the company as you can.
There are many sources of information to exploit, including:
The company itself (websites, annual reports, promotional material)
Libraries
Employees and company sales teams
Competitors and their sales teams
Business Associations (Chambers of Commerce, etc...)
Online business directories
Obviously it will be impossible (or unnecessary) to find answers to everything, but try to include areas outside of your immediate focus.
Timing of the interview
Midweek is by far the best choice. Many people are not at their best early on the first working day of the week, or on late Thursday; so why take the risk? The best time is probably first thing in the morning, so that other interviewees are compared with you (the next best choice is the final interview of the day, so that you leave a lasting impression).
If you want to change your appointment, telephone the firm, confirm your interest in the post and ask for an alternative appointment. Having won an interview, no reasonable company will refuse your request if you offer a credible reason why the time they suggest is inconvenient for you-make sure you have one.
to be continued :apl1
