First interview in 12 years

[Thesecret100]

So I have my first interview in 12 years next week!! Eek! Lol Im currently working part time in the only job I have ever had ive done it since I've left school so really nervous about goin for this new job next week. It's a completely different job going from beauty to office! I'm so happy I even got an interview, but I've been doing some research online about interview skills but it's boggling my brain, how can I convince them I'm ready to change my career? That I'm right person for the job and not someone with more experience? What's the right thing to say/ wrong thing to say? Any advice would be great

Firstly, well done on getting an interview!

Be clear on why you want to change jobs. Do research into that particular company, the sector you will be working on etc.

I've been involved in interviewing candidates before in roles that often represent a change of direction, or that they won't necessarily have direct experience in and I like to see that a candidate has taken time to understand our company and the wider business environment.

Well done on interview

I'd really make sure you are familiar with the job description, pick out the skills they're looking for and think in advance of a few examples you could use - eg attention to detail, relate to working in beauty ensuring correct products used / detailing clients health questionnaire on a database etc, time management - maintaining daily schedule of appointments, you get the idea! Doesn't necessarily have to be office based examples to prove to interviewer you're the right person for role, they're looking for transferable skills.
Make sure you've researched the company, have some key facts or figures, take a notepad with notes if you're nervous (shows you've taken time to prepare) and always have some questions ready - simple questions even like what's the team set up like, what's a standard day like (if not already covered). Don't ask questions for sake of it if discussion has already covered, makes it look like you weren't listening. If you're questions have been covered, tell them and read back your questions from your notes to reiterate this.
Interviews are two way and you should be finding out as much about the role an people you may work with as much as they are interviewing you for the role so be try not to be nervous - easier said than done!
Hope this helps! Best of luck x

Thank you both :D Im goin to work on it all week I really want this xx

Good luck

I just interviewed 8 people (of which for an office job in a large organisation (mostly women). What stands out for me is enthusiasm and honesty. We chose someone who is really keen (but not desperate!), positive and bubbly over someone else more qualified who came across as a bit boring.

Good luck!!!!!

Had interview today think it went well :D just a waiting game now! Thank you all x

I got the job so happy xx