So, you've got an interview – the easiest thing to do now is focus on what you are looking for in a job. While this is important, it is also important to think what you're interviewer is looking for in you.  Job seekers who fail to recognise this are not likely to get very far.

d2 recruitment will brief you fully prior to any interview we arrange for you.  We will provide all information including;

• Name of interviewer(s)
• Address and location of interview
• Company information
• Journey information
• Preparation details

However, you can never over prepare, so you still have some research to do on the following subjects;

The Company

It is imperative that in addition to the information provided by your consultant that you build up knowledge about the company for your interview.  It demonstrates an enthusiasm and eagerness to work for the organization.  Visit their website, look at recent press articles, and if possible annual reports.  Have an understanding of the company’s business and the sector it operates in, its services and its size and market position.

The Job

Your consultant will have briefed you fully prior to interview, although it would be beneficial to take a copy of the job description along for a quick reminder beforehand.

You

It is vital that you know your CV thoroughly, and again would be beneficial to take along two copies, one for you and the interviewer, just in case it has been misplaced.

Before an interview familiarise yourself with your CV and get an idea in your head of what benefit each statement or situation detailed creates, and more importantly how would it benefit the person who is interviewing you or their company.

Questions

The interview is a two-way process. The company interviewing you will want to find out whether you are suitable for the position and you will want to find out if the company and position are right for you.  Some questions may be answered within the natural course of the interview, therefore it is better to have too many prepared than too few, a few examples are noted below, although your consultant will be able to help you with more detailed information;

• What will be my responsibilities?
• Where will I fit into the overall organisational structure?
• What training do you provide?
• When will you decide on the appointment?
• What is the next step?

Part of your preparation for an interview should include considering all or some of the following:

• Ability to do the job - emphasise your accomplishments and results to show you are more than capable of doing the job.
• Initiative - unless you are at entry level, employers are likely to expect you to hit the ground running, show plenty of initiative and make an impact.
• Job growth - proving you can go beyond the defined job description, you can adapt and are willing to take on additional responsibility will be a positive.
• Self-confidence - decision makers need to be able to put their trust in you to perform. They develop this trust by seeing your confidence in your body language, the way you speak and your proven track record.
• Compatibility - organisations seek people whose personality style and behaviour match the requirements and culture of the job. Avoid criticising past employers or placing blame. A positive attitude is imperative.
• Social skills/interests/involvement - involvement in work activities, both social and professional, is good. Mention examples of teamwork and basic courtesies, such as saying please and thank you and giving credit and praise where due, will be well received.
• Communication skills - we can't ever communicate too much. Demonstrate how you continually use written and oral skills to achieve your goals.

While it might be impossible to hit all these areas, being aware of them might be to your advantage before going to an interview.  Just remember, instead of focusing on what you want, focus on what the employer wants - it could help you on the way to landing a new job.