At Chrysalis, our ultimate
aim is to place exciting people into great digital media roles. Your CV and
credentials will no doubt be very impressive, but the face-to-face interview is
where the position is won and lost.
Preparation is
undoubtedly the key, and a good first impression is paramount to your success.
The real impact of you as a prospective candidate is forged within the first 90
seconds of the meeting!
·
Wear smart business dress, and be conservative on
jewellery/ make-up/ perfume and aftershave.
·
Ensure you are familiar with the location of the
company - perhaps take the journey beforehand. Give yourself plenty of time –
being late is an instant turn-off to employers.
·
Prepare a couple of questions for your interviewer.
Probably towards the end of the meeting they will give you the chance to ask
them, so have a few questions in mind that reflect your thoughtfulness as a
candidate, as well as information on the role or the company.
Questions such
as…
·
Who are your customers?
·
What training will I require?
·
Are there any promotional opportunities within this
role? If so, when?
·
What are the company’s expansions and/ or business
plans for the future?
·
Will travel be required within the role?
·
Do they have a specific project in mind for you
initially?
·
When are they looking to make an appointment?
·
What are the salary/ package/ bonus details?
(though don't ask this too early in the interview; you don’t want to give the
impression that money is your main motivation)
·
When are you likely to hear from them on whether
you have been successful?
·
And if you are unsuccessful, can you have some
feedback? (This will help you hugely in any future interviews)
So you are now
prepared and focused on the interview, so here are a few easy pointers for when
you at last meet your interviewer…
·
Relax and smile.
·
Make frequent eye contact.
·
Shake hands firmly.
·
Be positive throughout the interview.
·
Look interested in what the interviewer has to say.
·
Concentrate on what's being discussed, so you don't
miss anything.
·
Keep your composure.
·
Relate your experience with what they are looking for;
try to think of relevant examples to back up your answers.
·
Be prepared to discuss strengths and weaknesses -
turn weaknesses into strengths.
A couple of key things to AVOID!
·
Fidgeting or folding your arms in a defensive
manner.
·
Interrupting the client.
·
Don’t slouch in your chair – sit up straight,
exhibiting attentiveness, not laziness or disinterest
·
Do not be afraid to sell yourself - this is your
one opportunity.
Remember: it is not enough to be well-qualified and brimming with confidence. You have to impress upon the interviewer that you really want to be a part of their company, emphasising your interest in the company and role. If you can display commitment, passion and drive with your body language, verbal answers and personality then you will give yourself a great chance. 
