Preparation is the first step towards completing a successful interview. The more prepared you are, the more confident you will be.

Familiarise yourself with the background of the company – its history, financial position, competitors, products and key achievements. Prepare questions to ask the interviewer. The interviewer will aim to determine through questioning whether you are the right person for a specific job.

Interview techniques

You must determine through questioning whether the potential employer will provide the opportunity for career development that you are seeking

During the interview, you will be assessed for your key strengths and weaknesses. Personal characteristics will be examined, such as attitude, motivation and past experiences.

Dos and dont's for interviews

• Be as charismatic as possible, it is very important that you demonstrate your interpersonal skills during the interview
• Follow the interviewer’s leads. However, aim to obtain a full description of the position and duties it incorporates at an early stage so that you can relay your appropriate background and skills accordingly
• Ensure you get your points across to the interview in a concise, factual and sincere manner. Conduct yourself as it you are determined to get the job you are discussing
• Answer your questions with a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no – be sure to back up your answers with past examples
• Don't make derogatory remarks about your present or former employers
• Don't enquire about salary or holidays. You should however, know your market value and be prepared to specify your required salary range
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Questions to prepare for

• Why did you choose a career in accountancy/IT/tax/banking?
• Why would you like to work for our company?
• What do you want to be doing in your career five years from now?
• What style of management gets the best from you?
• What interests you about our product/service?
• What have you done that shows initiative in your career?
• What are your major weaknesses and what are your strengths?
• What do you think determines a person's progress in a good company?
• What does 'teamwork' mean to you?
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Closing the interview

If you are interested in the role, enquire about the following stage and process as a whole. If you are offered the position and definitely want it, accept it on the spot. If you would like time to think it over, be courteous and tactful in asking for that time. Don’t be discouraged if no definite offer is made nor a specific salary discussed. Thank the interviewer for the time spent with you.

After the interview

Lastly, it is essential to call your consultant immediately after the interview to explain how it went. The consultant will want to hear your feedback before the interviewer calls. 

For more career advice information, please contact:

Jason Grundy, Managing Director (Middle East)
jason.grundy@robertwalters.com
+971 4 8180 100