Xanthe Kershaw

Preparing for Job Interviews

You've done the hard work, all those hours spent applying for numerous jobs has paid off and you've managed to bag a job interview. Preparation is often crucial to success but just how long should jobseekers spend preparing for a job interview?

According to a recent survey of jobseekers, the typical person spends no more than 2 hours preparing for a job interview. With potential employment at steak, a period equivalent to the length of an average movie does not seem much. Sure, in 2 hours the Titanic can sink, Hobbits can cross Middle Earth and Will Smith can probably save the world in one way or another, but can you equip yourself for job success? By following these simple tips you can optimize your preparation time.

Know your application. Having applied to a number of jobs, you may feel you could churn out application form answers backward whilst standing on your head, but never underestimate the importance of knowing your application inside out. Go over what you have said and commit it to memory, so if your interviewers refer to any part of your job application you will not be caught unaware. Go over your CV. Be prepared to discuss anything, especially aspects which may be perceived as weaknesses or lack of experience.

Know the job. In the same way, make sure you know exactly what jobs you are applying for.  Find a detailed job description: the company itself is likely to provide one, but if not you are bound to find something relevant by searching online. Think about every point of the description and how you specifically would be an asset in the role. Create a mental bank of examples which demonstrate your aptitude. You may find it useful to follow the SAS guideline:

• a Situation in your personal or professional life
• the Action you undertook
• how this action led to Success.

Research, research, research. Once you are sure you know your own application and the job description in encyclopaedic depth, it is time to focus on the company itself. Use any resources you have access to – the Internet, industry publications, even your local library – to garner an accurate impression of the ethos and aims of the business. It is useful to start with generalities, but make sure you focus on particular examples. What especially do you like about the company? What aspect of their business has impressed you? Anyone being interviewed wants a job, but these details will make you stand out. They will demonstrate to your potential employer that you have thought about the value of their company and how you particularly can be an asset to it.

Interrogate yourself. Before your interview, it is useful if you spend a few moments thinking about what you are likely to be asked when interviewing for jobs. Put yourself in the position of the employer – what would you want to know? There are some standard interview questions, many of which you can find listed online. Go through your responses, focusing on using positive language and consistently returning to the idea that not only will you gain from the employment, but that the company will benefit from you. Writing your answers down is a good way to make them stick in your head without making them sound rehearsed. You could also rope in a friend or family member to act as your interviewer!

Spending half an hour on each of these four elements will fill the standard 2 hour preparation time and hopefully render you completely ready for any job interview. Remember: coming across well in interviews for jobs is a skill which anyone can acquire. The more prepared you are, the more self-aware and competent you will appear.

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