Be Ready to ask questions:
The questions you ask show that you are interested in making sure the job is right for you. Here are some suggestions:
· What would I be doing and what would a typical day be like?
· Which tasks are the most important ones?
· How would I be trained or introduced to the job?
· How long should it take me to get up to speed
· How many people will I be working with, what do they do?
· Could I see where I’d be working and meet the team?
· When would you like me to start?
If the interviewer doesn’t tell you things like wages, over-time, holidays and sick leave, it’s okay to ask them.
We suggest you do this towards the end of the interview – after you’ve found out all about the job and have had a chance to tell the employer how suitable you would be.
Take information with you:
Take a folder to the interview with your original CV, certificates and references (and spare copies), a copy of your application and any letters you’ve sent the employer – plus anything else they’ve sent you. Also take along your notes and questions to jog your memory, its okay to check your notes and to take notes as well.
Be ready on time:
Know the time and place of the interview and the name of the person who will be interviewing you (remember it may be more than one person).
Arrive early so that you have time to relax and feel confident. If you want to take family or Whanau along, you’ll need to arrange this beforehand with the person who is interviewing you.
Make a good impression:
The impression you create in the first few minutes is very important. The employer uses your presentation to assess your attitudes, values and how you will fit in with the company. They may seem obvious but it’s worth repeating some simple rules
· Take extra care with the way you look.
· Wear clean suitable clothes and shoes (no track pants, t-shirts or tight short clothes)
· Smile, shake hands firmly and look people in the eye.
· Address people as Mr, Mrs or Ms unless they say otherwise.
· Wait to be asked to sit down – be relaxed but sit upright.
· Don’t smoke, eat, use a water bottle or chew gum.
· Try not to fiddle with your hair, clothes or pens.
· Don’t be critical of other companies or people
Part 3 will be in the March Issue
