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How to prepare for interview

This is one of a series of articles by Andrew Fisher – CEO of Media C2C.

When you are offered an interview – you should go. Whilst obvious advice, many job seekers change their minds at the last moment or dither – any interview is an opportunity to sell your skills and gain experience. You never know what may result from the meeting in the short, medium or long term. At this stage someone has viewed your cv and been impressed and / or heard good reports about you – take advantage of the invitation and attend and do a good interview.

The key to a good interview is preparation.

How to prepare for interview - Here are the Media C2C tips...

Research the organisation online and by speaking to others. Look in the press for recent events / news, read their most recent annual report, read around the industry sector and read the relevant trade press. Take note of the management structure and names of the key management team.

Read and reread the job description and list next to the relevant points where your skills and experience fits. With regards to the personal requirements again list how you fit and evidence tasks you have achieved that demonstrate the personal qualities required.

This research should lead to sensible and well considered questions about the organisation and the role.

Dress appropriately – you should look to reflect the dress code of the organisation - but be smarter. If in any doubt a suit, tie and shiny shoes. The only other comment is that you should feel comfortable in what you are wearing.

It is always a good idea to have a couple of copies of your cv and any covering letter with you. You should carefully read your cv, any application form and covering letter well before the event.

Always check address of interview (do not assume address on the internet is where you are going) and check travel arrangements and the time it will take to get there. Aim to arrive ½ an hour early – this should allow for any delays or parking issues.

Ensure that you know who you are meeting, their job title and anyone else who is involved. Research their background through business networks, Google and / or the company website.

Ask yourself some typical interview questions:

What attracted you to this job?
Why are you leaving your current job
What do you see as your strengths and weaknesses?
Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
What do you do outside work?

Prepare outline answers to all of the above.

Media C2C is the employer only job board and candidate database specialising in Media Jobs in the UK.

To learn more: http://www.mediac2c.co.uk/
To upload your cv: http://www.mediac2c.co.uk/candidates/register.aspx
To advertise and search: http://www.mediac2c.co.uk/recruiters/register.aspx