Interview tips and what to wear?

[benny3008]

I have an interview tomorrow for an apprenticeship as a parts consultant at a local motor factors. does anyone have any tips on interview techniques and how to stop myself from hesitating so much. I am really nervous and it is my first real interview i've had. Also i dont know what to wear, my theory is, if i go as smart as i can i.e. shirt and tie, they can't penalise me for that however if i wear what i think would be suitable for the post (which is not quite so smart, just a little more relaxed), and they expected smarter, i could be penalised. is this a good attitude to have or should i look into it more? any tips welcome. TIA

[vallaw]

Go smart - they will appreciate you have made the effort. They will expect you to be nervous so don't worry too much about that. Show that you are really interested in the job - have a question ready to ask about what they do and what they expect of you. Try to make your skills relevant - you may not have actual experience of the job, but think of what you are good at and how it can apply. And remember, if you don't tell them how good you are, they'll never get the chance to find out! Good luck.

[Old_Geezer]

Generally speaking wear something smart. If you don't you may give an impression of someone who couldn't be bothered.

Prepare to the interview, have a good idea of what the firm does and what the job you are applying for entails, and what you can offer the company that makes you the one they should choose.

Take a deep breath when you need to. A little hesitation to think about an answer is ok, folk are aware interviews are nerve wracking, but naturally too long a pause doesn't give the best impression.

Pretty much be yourself. The individual interviewing you is only human, they do the same things you do, and may even be nervous of holding an interview, so no need to concentrate on your self all the time, try to relax and so appear a good colleague to work with.

Get a decent night's sleep beforehand, so you are fresh and raring to go.

[benny3008]

thanks for both answers, I think i will stick with original idea and what both of you have said which is to dress smart, cant go wrong that way i suppose. all of what you have said makes complete sense. thanks again.

[TonyV]

benny - inevitably they will ask you at end of interview they will ask you if you have any questions, so have at least three prepared to ask eg career progression at end of apprenticeship.
Also, don't rush into answers, take your time and try and be as relaxed as possibe.
All the best - let us know how it goes.

[archeraddict]

Hi Benny. Good luck for tomorrow. I agree with your instinct and what has been said already.

Remember that body language is really important. Start with a firm handshake .
Sit down only when asked to do so.
Ensure good eye contact, making sure you look at everyone in the room (if more than one interviewer) when you answer, but finish your answer looking at the person who asked the question.
If you don't understand, then ask for clarification - but don't ask too often!
If there is an obvious answer to a question, still give it. I once interviewed someone who didn't answer very well and, when prompted, kept saying 'oh of course, but I thought that was too obvious!'.She didn't get the job!
Hope you're successful - do let us know.

[benny3008]

just t let everyone know, interview went good, don't know yet whether or not I have got the job but I am quietly confident. :-)

[vallaw]

Keeping fingers crossed for you.

[archeraddict]

Thanks for telling us benny3008. Everything crossed for you but good to know you're feeling confident.

[benny3008]

I got the job!!! :-)

[archeraddict]

Many congratulations. Hope it goes really well for you.

[johnk]

Well done. Best of luck from now on.

[TonyV]

well done benny - onwards and upwards

[TonyV]

are you going to accept offer?

[benny3008]

have already accepted tony. :-)

[karenmac60]

Benny, I got a lot of good tips on coping with nerves on here, particularly Annie's advice on page 3. It worked too! As for what to wear - a suit is maybe a bit OTT for a manual job, but at least wear a shirt and tie, and make sure your shoes and fingernails are clean :) Good luck

http://www.theanswerb.../Question1024493.html

[karenmac60]

Oh sugar - should've read the date(and the other answers)! D'oh! Congratulations on getting the job :)

[ilovetohelp13]

Try these interview tips from Payscale.com. See http://bitly.com/Zh2jdR