Interview Technique

Preparation is the first essential step towards conducting a successful interview. Employers are ever amazed at the number of candidates who do not prepare themselves for interview, possessing little or no information about the company for which they are being interviewed.

Dress in a smart business suit with a clean, ironed shirt and tie (or blouse) and dark shoes. Do not wear casual clothes even if you know that it is company policy.


The exact time and location of the interview, route, parking etc. and how long it will take to get there.

The interviewer's correct title and pronunciation of his or her full name. Specific facts about the company the company's mission

  • the market in which it operates
  • its competitors its plant, office or store locations
  • its products and services its recent business growth
  • its growth potential for the future

There are also a number of helpful documents and research publications:

  • Facts and figures about your present or former employer.
  • Refresh your memory on this as you will be expected to know a lot about a company for which you have previously worked.
  • Questions to ask the interviewer.

Remember that an interview is a two way street. The interviewer will try to determine through questioning whether you are the right person for a specific job. Likewise, you must determine through questioning whether this potential employer will provide the opportunity for career development that you seek.

Besides this, the interviewer will be impressed by your interest in the company and by your articulation of intelligent questions.

Some questions you might ask include:

  • can you give me a detailed description of the position?
  • why has the position become available?
  • what is the culture of the company?
  • what induction/training programme is there?
  • what kinds of people have previously been successful in the company?
  • what advanced training programmes are available for those who demonstrate ability?
  • what plans has the company for future development?
  • which are the company's best selling products or services?
  • what is the next step?