How to prepair yourself for an interview

1.  Interview
         A formal meeting in which one or more person question, consult or evaluate another person; 
In a job interview, the way you talk about yourself is a deciding factor in your success.

Ø     Before the interview

                     Interviews require much research and planning. Generally, you should do the following steps before the interview.
1. Anticipate potential questions and prepare answers accordingly.
2. Consider how you'll explain problematic aspects of your CV, such as leaving an employer.
3. Contact your references, alerting them that you'll be interviewing and that they may receive a call. 
4. Fully understand the role that you're applying for by revisiting the job description, identifying what skills, interests and experiences the employer is looking for.
5. Read the organization's website, social media profiles and key literature (e.g. business plan, financial reports and corporate social responsibility strategy ), ensuring that you're prepared to share your views and ideas.
6. Prepare questions to ask the interviewer. 
7. Research the news, trends, competitors, history and opportunities of the organization and its job sector.
8. Review your CV and application form.Choose your outfit the night before, getting plenty of sleep and Plan your journey, aiming to arrive ten minutes early. Completing a 'dry run', if possible, also combats nerves. On the day, eat a good, healthy breakfast and avoid to eat unhealthy.

1. Research the organization
 This will help you answer questions and stand out from less-prepared candidates.

·  Seek background information

  1. Use tools like Vault, Career Search or The Riley Guide for an overview of the organization and its industry profile.

  2. Visit the organization's website to ensure that you understand the breadth of what they do.

  3. Review the organization's background and mission statement.

  4. Assess their products, services and client-base.

  5. Read recent press release for insight on projected growth and stability.

·  Get Perspective:

                    Review trade or business publications. Seek perspective and a glimpse into their industry standing.

·  Develop a question list:

                    Prepare to ask about the organization or position based on your research.

2. Compare your skills and qualifications to the job requirements

·   Analyze the job description:

                    Outline the knowledge, skills and abilities required.

·   Look side-by-side:

                    Compare what the employer is seeking to your qualifications.

3. Plan what to Wear

·   Go neutral:

                    Conservative business attire, such as a neutral-colored suit and professional shoes, is best.

·   Dress to impress:

                    Be sure that your overall appearance is neat and clean.

4. What to take

    1. Extra copies of your resume on quality paper 

    2. A notepad or professional binder and pen 

    3. A list of references 

    4. Information you might need to complete an application

    5. A portfolio with samples of your work, if relevant

5. Pay attention to non-verbal communication 

·   Be mindful:

                    Nonverbal communication speaks volumes.

·   Manage reactions:

                    Facial expressions provide clues to your feelings. Manage how you react, and project a positive image. .

·   Be attentive:

                    Don't stare, but maintain good eye contact, while addressing all aspects of an interviewer's questions. .

·   Start ahead:

                   Remember that waiting room behaviors may be reported.

·   Project confidence:

                   Smile, establish eye contact and use a firm handshake

·     Posture counts:

                   Sit up straight yet comfortably. Be aware of nervous gestures such as foot-tapping.

·   Respect their space:

                   Do not place anything on their desk.

6. Follow up

Many interviews end with “Do you have any questions?” 
·     Bring a list:
            You may say, “In preparing for today's meeting, I took some time to jot down a few questions. Please allow me to review my notes.” 
·     Be strategic:
  Do not ask for information that can be found on the organization’s website.
1.     In your opinion, what makes this organization a great place to work?
2.     Tell me about the organization’s culture.
3.     How will my performance be evaluated?
4.     What are the next steps in the hiring process?
5.     What are the opportunities for advancement?