You will only get one chance to make a good first impression at an interview, so it is vital that you are confident and well-prepared before you walk through the door. Here is a guide to ensure that you present yourself in the best possible light.
Preparation
Preparation is the key to a successful interview. You will be more confident and better able to answer questions if you have done your research. An important aspect of preparing for interview is finding out some details about the company in question, by visiting its website, reading about it in relevant trade journals, looking through its last set of accounts or getting hold of its last official report. By doing this you will be well placed when it comes to thinking up some questions of your own.
Appearance
Always ensure that you are smartly dressed and well groomed, wearing neutral and dark tones. Women should wear light make-up only and both genders should only allow a slight hint of perfume or after shave. Use positive, strong body language to convey confidence. Greet interviewers with a firm hand shake and a smile, maintaining eye contact without staring.
Listen Up
Demonstrate listening skills by allowing the interviewer to speak first and at length. Then ask any pertinent questions, concentrating on the interviewers’ responses.
Questions
In the few days before the interview, start drawing up a list of possible questions. You will definitely be asked if you have any, and it pays to make sure your questions are intelligent and incisive. Type your questions neatly on a sheet of paper, with space for written answers. When the interviewer asks if you have any questions, produce the sheet and ask if they mind if you take some notes. This demonstrates that you have gone to the trouble of preparing questions and are interested in the answers. Here are some suggested questions:
- How will I be measured?
- Tell me about this year's plans
- What training and development opportunities exist?
- What promotion opportunities are there?
- Why has the current person left?
- Have you a role profile?
- What targets and objectives will I have?
- Tell me about the reporting lines and structure
Always keep your questions short and to the point. Interview questions for banking or finance jobs should demonstrate a good working knowledge of the sector. You should also be prepared to be asked at least some of the following questions. Make sure that you have considered them and have answers ready.
- Tell me about yourself?
- What do you know about us?
- Where do you see yourself in five years time?
- What can you bring to the party?
- What are your major strength and weaknesses?
- Why did you leave your last job?
- What motivates you?
- What do you value in your life?
- Are you in employment talks with anyone else?
- What remuneration package are you looking for?
- Are you in good health?
- What do you do with your spare time?
- Why should I hire you?
Remain calm throughout the interview. The interviewer is looking for thoughtful and considered answers - not a rushed response.
Closing confidently
Express enthusiasm and interest in both the company and the opportunity. Finish with an upbeat remark, stating your reasons for wanting the company and the role.