Interview tips

[ThreeBecameFour]

I am currently on mat leave, but interviewing for new role on Tuesday - a 45 min Q&A session. If I get to 2nd interview it will be a presentation and q's.... I have researched the new company's website, annual report and tried to prep for q's. I have put together scenarios for anything that might come up q wise from their job spec. I am getting nervous as this is my first interview since 2009. I have been in my existing role since then but I am keeping options open as there is no more progression there. I think the being out of the workplace on mat leave for the last 8 months is getting to me. What are your tips for a successful interview please?

Remind yourself that as you have been invited to interview they think you can do the job. So you are more than half-way there....

Try to take it all slowly. It can be easy to rush answers etc. If you need to think of an answer says something like "That is an interesting question" to give you a few seconds thinking time.

You sound like you have prepared as much as you can.

Best of luck.

Always accept a glass of water, then you can buy yourself a few seconds by taking a drink. Also, say what you want to say, then stop - don't fall into the trap of whittering on to fill any gaps. Have a question or two planned to ask at the end, e.g. about strategic direction of the organisation, or what your priorities would be in the first three months.

I find it useful to remember that the employers just want to know if you're qualified to do the job, and if you can and will do the job.