You have reached the point of obtaining an interview for your dream role. So how can you stand out from the rest of the crowd?
We don’t have all the answers, but listed below are some very helpful tips to increase your chances of gaining employment:
YOUR PREPARATION:
- Know who you are meeting with
- Have the correct address details, building, level etc.
- The time of the interview
- Plan your journey beforehand so you arrive on time, even a little earlier
- Research their organisation, find out key facts, their core business etc.
- Dress professionally (make the best first impression you can)
- Take a copy of your cover letter, resume and any qualifications you have obtained
- Have a note pad and pen in case you want to write notes or refer to your questions
INTERVIEW TIME:
Be prepared for questions like, or similar to below from the interviewer or interview panel:
- Why do you want to do an apprenticeship/traineeship?
- What do you know about us?
- Tell me/us about your schooling and any previous employment experience?
- What interests you about working for an organisation like ours?
- What skills do you hope to gain from completing an apprenticeship/traineeship?
- Tell me/us a little bit about yourself?
- What are your career goals for the next 2-3 years?
- Can you give me/us an example of a time when you have worked under pressure?
- How do you prioritise your workload?
It is also good to have questions ready for your potential employer. You don’t have to ask all of them and remember, by asking questions it shows you have prepared for the interview and are very interested in the role.
Questions can be:
- If I am successful, what are your expectations of me?
- Have you had apprentices/trainees before, and if they completed, what are they doing now? I.e. are they still with the organisation?
- Can you explain what a normal working day/week would be like for me?
- How many people are in the team, and who do I report to?
- If I prove to be a valuable employee, are there long term career opportunities available?
- Is there any internal training offered to increase my skill set on top of my qualification?
- How would you describe your workplace culture?
- Can I have tour of the workplace if time permits?
We hope the above information helps and all the very best for your interview!
