Ten ways to nail the job at an Interview
1. The best way to get that job is to find out what particular problem the employer is looking to solve and then show how you can do it. For instance, instead of going for a job as a quantity surveyor you are really going for a far more precise role than that.
If you asked the right questions in interview, you might discover that the interviewer wants someone who is great at bills of quantities because no-one else can do them, and who can deal with difficult people because most of the directors are quite peculiar.
You can get into this sort of conversation by asking questions such as "Which projects would I be involved in?" and "Are there any particular requirements of the job it is worth talking about now?"
2. Prepare thoroughly and know exactly what sort of qualities you need to demonstrate. Perhaps viewing the company's website or brochure.
3. Dress in the way your interviewers are dressed. Wear a suit, look smart and polish shoes.
4. Make eye contact frequently.
5. Smile.
6. Be positive in your outlook. Try to avoid saying "no" in answers.
7. Demonstrate the skills you claim to have. If they are likely to ask you if you are well organised, you need to have an example to back up your story.
8. Make yourself stand out from the crowd. Make your comments and stories interesting. If you are a marathon runner, you might include a story to prove your endurance.
9. Show your knowledge of the industry you are applying for not just your knowledge of your role within it. Your employer should be obsessed by that industry and should see your interest in it too as a recommendation.
10. Have a list of points you want to make and find an opportunity to get them over. Don't be shy and let your interviewer chatter away at you just because he likes the sound of his own voice. You need to demonstrate various things in the interview and you must not let a poor interviewer get in the way.
