Interview Tips
Interview tips
If you're asked to come to an interview, we'll fully brief you on the role and what to expect. However, you need to convince the interviewer that you are the best person for the job and stand out from the rest of the interviewees.
Before the interview
Prepare
- Make sure you know when and where the interview is, and the name and position of the person you're going to meet.
- Plan your journey - make sure you have clear directions and you know your route. Allow plenty of time in case of any delays, and don't forget to allow time for traffic and parking.
- Take the telephone number of the person you're meeting with you, and phone ahead if you're delayed.
- Find out how long the interview is likely to take, so you can make any other arrangements accordingly.
Research
- Check out our website for more in-depth information including recent press releases, brochures or annual reports.
- Gather as much useful information as possible. You'll impress the interviewer if you've gone to the trouble of finding out about the company.
Know your CV
- Read your CV and be prepared to talk about your previous roles in detail.
- Make sure you can account for any gaps on your CV, and that you can give positive reasons for leaving previous roles.
- Consider what you can bring to the company and the role, based on the skills outlined on your CV.
Quiz yourself
Practice the answers to common interview questions including:
- Tell me about your current role.
- What makes you particularly suited to this role?
- What attracted you to this role?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Where do you see yourself in five years?
Prepare your own questions
Take the opportunity to find out about your employer. Intelligent questions will also give an insight into the type of employee you will be. Questions you may consider asking include:
- How does the department fit in with the rest of the company?
- What is the culture of the company?
- How long was the last person in this role?
- Is there an induction or training programme?
- Why is Cable&Wireless Worldwide a good company to work for?
During the interview
Dress Code
- Remember that first impressions count
- Dress smartly and professionally, even if you know the company allows a less formal dress code
Body language
- Be confident and shake hands firmly when you meet people and when you leave.
- Smile! This shows you are enthusiastic and friendly.
- Sit up straight and maintain regular eye contact.
- Try to stay calm and remain confident and alert.
- Listen carefully to the interviewer's questions and try not to get distracted.
- Take time to think before you answer the question, and speak slowly and clearly.
- Maintain an open stance, and avoid fidgeting or folding your arms.
Closing the Interview
- Remember to thank the interviewer for their time.
- Ask what the next stage of the interview process will be.
General Tips
What you should do...
- Be prepared.
- Be confident and make sure you sell yourself.
- Have a positive attitude and go in with the intention of securing a job offer.
Sounds obvious, but you should not...
- Exaggerate your experience or qualifications.
- Criticise or speak negatively of previous employers.
- Leave your mobile switched on.
