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Any interview can be a stressful and daunting experience but properly preparing can go a long way to reducing that worry and give yourself the very best chance of getting a positive result. We have been helping people find roles across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and London for a long time and we are very well placed to help you out.
1. Research the Company
Understand who they are: Read through their website, their social media, and also use the 'news' tab on Google to see if they have been mentioned recently
Know their products/services: Be ready to discuss how their products or services work and how they stand out in the market.
2. Review the Job Spec
Identify key responsibilities: Have examples ready of where your previous experiences align with what they are looking for.
Understand required skills: Prepare examples from your experience that demonstrate these skills in action.
3. Know Your CV
Be ready to discuss your experiences: Be sure that you are confident in your own ability to talk through what you have done and what is written on your CV.
Use the STAR method: For behavioral questions (e.g., "Tell me about a time when..."), structure your responses using Situation, Task, Action, and Result to keep your answers focused.
Why did you leave?: Have an answer ready for why you left each of your previous roles but remember DON'T be negative about your previous employers wherever possible
4. Prepare for The Most Common Interview Questions
"Tell me about yourself": Make it interesting! Prepare an engaging summary of you, both in work and outside work.
Behavioral questions: Spend some time practicing answers for these questions and don't forget that this is a time to sell yourself! These answers should not show you in a bad light. Here is a great article with a few examples (41 Behavioural Interview Questions You Must Know (Best Answers Included) (themartec.com))
Strengths and weaknesses: Be honest but strategic. For weaknesses, focus on something you’ve actively worked to improve.
5. Prepare Questions for the Interviewer
This is essential - Here is a great article with some ideas on what you could prepare, have a minimum of 3 questions ready for the end of the interview (38 Smart Questions to Ask in a Job Interview (hbr.org))
6. Practice
Mock interviews: Practice with a friend or in front of a mirror to gain confidence and get comfortable answering questions aloud.
Slow down: Everyone rushes when they are nervous. Allow yourself 2 or 3 seconds before answering questions and speak slower than you think you should (it will come out at normal speed!)
7. Dress To Impress (but appropriately)
Do you know what is expected?: If you're not sure, than ask!
8. Prepare for Remote Interviews (if applicable)
Test your technology: Ensure your camera, microphone, and internet connection are functioning properly.
Choose a quiet, well-lit space: Make sure your background is neutral and free from distractions.
9. Be Punctual
Arrive 15-20 minutes early at the location: If it’s an in-person interview, give yourself time to relax and focus. If it’s virtual, log in a few minutes early to check your setup. If you are in any doubt at all, then go even earlier!!! You can always just go and grab a coffee if you get their too early.
Enter 5-10 minutes early: Any earlier than that just looks a bit odd
Check the journey: Be sure that you know where you are going, that your phone is charged and your car has enough petrol
10. Sell Yourself
Be enthusiastic: Show just how excited you are to be being considered for the role
Don't put yourself down: This is no time to be negative!
11. ASK
We are on your side: It is in our interest to make sure you as well prepared as you can possibly be for your interview. If you have any questions at all about your interview, then please just ring us or message us and we will help. No question is a silly question.
OJ Digital is a recruitment agency based in Thame and Haddenham that recruits all across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and London. OJ Digital builds real partnerships with local businesses, working with them as a team to ensure that any recruitment process is efficient, first-rate and results in the right person being in the right role at the right time. We have recruited in sales, marketing, HR, operations, finance, customer service, account management and administration.
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