Dos and Don’ts – the interview process

Over the past two months we have been recruiting for an Events Promotions Assistant. This particular role would see the chosen candidates increase their knowledge of student events, travel, hone their managerial skills and also enjoy the freedom of creativity. 

The interview process has been straight forward, phone interview followed by a face to face if you have successfully passed the initial first stage.

We have had numerous candidates apply for the role, and there have been some successful applicants that have gone through to the final face to face interview stage.

After listening and understanding the process of trying find suitable employees for the role from my colleague I decided to write a blog post about it.

When a company is looking for a potential new employee one personality trait seems to stand out above all others 'ENTHUSIASM'.

Being enthusiastic and confident makes you memorable.

We have had a variety of very diverse candidates all with different characteristics.

The collective issue that we have had is that they do not seem to be aware of the dos and don’ts of an interview. So I have decided to enlighten you all with a list.

The Dos 

• Dress appropriately – dressing professionally will help with your confidence, it also shows that you’re serious about the interview and will allow the recruiter to see you on a more professional level.
• Arrive 10 minutes before your interview – this will allow you to collect your thoughts and shake off any nerves you may have. Punctuality is important, but do not show up too early, you’re set a time for a reason.
• Offer a firm handshake – a firm handshake is a sign of respect and is a professional greeting.
• Maintain good eye contact – you may feel nervous or even shy but you need to express your interest and prove you’re listening.
• Be prepared – ensure you are clued up about the company, prove that you have done your research by being able to answer all questions thoroughly with confidence and backup statements.
• Ask for clarification if you didn't hear or misunderstood a question.

The Don'ts

• Don’t be late; if you think you might be late for your interview make sure you inform the person interviewing you.
• Don’t make negative comments about previous employers; you will appear to lack decorum with the inability to control your personal feelings.
• Don’t give the impression that you are only interested in the salary, this may be an important factor but your interest in the job should be more important.
• Don’t chew gum or smell of smoke.
• Don’t take your parents to your job interview. This shows a lack of independence.
• Don’t fidget or play with your hair, keep your nerves under control.
• Don’t lie about your abilities to make yourself look better. 

I hope you have found this useful!

Check out the TARGETjobs website for further career advice.

Written by Roxanne Chand