This article is from a previous edition of Graduate Career
This article was printed in the February 2010 edition of Graduate Career.
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by Simon Midgley
Doing your homework and preparing properly for an interview can make all the difference, says Sarah Hiscock.
Your application and CV have worked their magic, now comes the interview. But before you step into a potential employer’s office, make sure you’ve done your homework.
“Carry out research into the organisation and its profile within the relevant industry or sector,” says Margaret Holbrough, careers adviser at Graduate Prospects. “For example, is it a major player, is it involved in high profile activities, what recent coverage has it had in the press or industryspecific media?”
Vanessa Gough, IBM UK graduate and student manager, agrees. “I am always impressed when a candidate has thoroughly researched IBM and can tell me, for example, about our Smarter Planet strategy, perhaps our current share price, or quote examples of the work IBM has done with some of our clients.”
The first 15 seconds can make or break an interview so first impressions are vital. “The first thing I notice is confidence . . . and shoes,” says Gough. “Eye contact and a good handshake is important. Firm, dry and brief, please.” When it comes to attire, business dress is most commonly expected. However, remember to dress appropriately for the position.
“For the retail scheme at John Lewis I would expect someone in a suit, looking as they would if they were a manager in one of our branches,” says Sophie Milliken, graduate recruitment manager. “For the buying and merchandising I would expect someone a bit trendy in something that stands out.”
When answering questions, always ensure that your responses are relevant. This often means taking a moment to compose an answer that fully demonstrates your ability. “Use STAR — Situation Task Action Result — to keep yourself on track when answering questions requiring an explanation of something you did,” says Holbrough.
Expressing your long-term career aspirations is also encouraged. “It is always good to speak to someone who is ambitious and has thought where they want to be in the next five to ten years,” says Milliken. “I recently had someone who said they wanted to be a department manager. That’s not great as it’s only the first step on their management journey. However, someone else talked to me about which position he wanted on the board.”
Milliken is also keen that candidates use life and work experience to answer questions, not just academic answers that will not stand out.