So you have been invited for an interview by the SSTG. Your qualifications, experience and track record as described in your application form have secured you an interview and now it is time for you to impress us and convince the interviewer that you are worth investing a considerable sum of money in training you. How you come across at interview is of vital importance.
We hope you will find the following guidelines useful when attending an interview with the SSTG but much of the following will also be valuable advice if you decide to decline our offer of an interview and pursue an alternative career.
Top Ten Tips
1. You should always be thoroughly prepared for any interview. This will make you feel confident and as a result you are likely to come across as more knowledgeable.
2. Allow sufficient travel time to cover minor delays and to arrive 15 to 30 minutes before the interview time so that you can quietly collect your thoughts. If you are unexpectedly delayed to the extent that you will be late, phone to explain the situation.
3. You should dress smartly for the interview. Work on a firm, positive and decisive approach. A poor or limp handshake will often give a negative impression. Make sure you are seated comfortably. Maintain a good posture and do not slouch. Ask for a glass of water if this would help you.
4. Try to anticipate the general questions you may be asked and consider your response.
5. You need to be positive about yourself and your abilities. Do not respond with just a 'yes' or no' response and back up your answers with examples. Say what you have to say in response to any question but do not ramble or waffle. If the interviewer wants further details or wider information they will ask.
6. You will need to demonstrate that you have the aptitude to cope with the studies, and the motivation to succeed at a demanding and challenging career. Do any hobbies, interests or prior achievements demonstrate this? Make sure you mention them even if the interviewer does not ask.
7. You may have been disappointed at the outcome with previous employment, or about the way other interviews have been conducted. It is quite acceptable to mention this, but be factual and objective avoiding blanket criticism.
8. No one likes an aggressive candidate or someone who acts in a superior way. This is unlikely to help sell yourself or impress.
9. Try to prepare some suitable questions to ask the interviewer. Have a note of these in case you forget and do not be afraid to ask the interviewer if you can refer to them. It will confirm that you have prepared for the interview.
10. Be a good listener as well as an orator. Acknowledge the interviewer's comments in appropriate ways. Let your personality come through and respond to the interviewers approach accordingly. Always try to adopt an open, honest and confident attitude.
And finally ….
Remember, the interviewer will learn more about you in the first five minutes than the following fifty. Make that time count.
Doing well at interview often comes down to two things; Preparation and Confidence.