THE JOB INTERVIEW (THE TOP 10 SECRETS OF SUCCESS)

The Job Interview  (the TOP 10 secrets of success)

The job interview is your 'window of opportunity' so make sure you do yourself justice and PREPARE TO WIN! Here are 10 top secrets that could just help swing the hiring decision in your favour:

TIP 1: Do your homework!
Find out as much as you can about the company – its history, its philosophy, its services and products, its key personalities. The Internet and industry publications are invaluable sources of information. This research will enable you to formulate some intelligent, open-ended questions that will make you look interested in the job and provide you with additional information that will help you make the right decision for your career if you are offered the role.

TIP 2: Be on time for the Interview!
Confirm the date, time and location of the interview. Find out about public transport or the nearest parking. Give yourself plenty of time to make the journey and to catch your breath before the interview. Know who is going to be interviewing you and make sure you know how to pronounce any difficult names.

TIP 3: Preparation is Key!
Review your resume and think about your achievements and accomplishments. Have some answers prepared to those inevitable questions about your strengths and weaknesses. Review the position description or the details you have been given about the role. Show how your experience will benefit the company.

TIP 4: Look the Part
Try to match the professional standard of dress expected in the financial services industry. A business suit is best, but a smart jacket is acceptable. Polish your shoes and keep accessories to a minimum. Carry out 'running repairs' if the weather is wet or windy. This may seem obvious but you'd be surprised how often good grooming is overlooked.

TIP 5: Mobile Phones
Turn them off!

TIP 6: Salary

Don't discuss salary with the interviewer at the first interview with the client company. It is best to leave the question about salary to your Consultant, but if the subject does come up, give an indication of your desired salary range, as discussed with the Consultant, but don't get bogged down in detail. Your Consultant will assist you with negotiations at offer stage.

TIP 7: Your Consultant as a 'Sounding Board'

Be careful not to voice any reservations about the job during the interview. They may prove to be unfounded and you can always turn down further interviews or any prospective offers if your reservations are not dealt with satisfactorily. Use your Consultant as a 'sounding board' and they can assist with further investigations if necessary.

TIP 8: Think Before You Speak!
Never make negative or derogatory comments about your previous employers and never tell a lie – it will come back to haunt you! Always be honest in your responses. Never say you have other options to consider if you don't.

TIP 9: Co-operation is Critical
Always co-operate with your Consultant – they are there to help you too. Always turn up for interviews they have set up for you – and don't be late! Keep your Consultant informed of developments and give them feedback on interviews as soon as possible while your thoughts are still fresh in your mind.

TIP 10: Just Ask!
Finally, if you really want the job – tell the interviewer! Don't be too arrogant, but you may just get the position if you ask for it!