The first thing you should have on hand is a notebook and a pen. Although these days we can take many notes on our phones, a classic paper notebook and handwritten notes can be irreplaceable in a situation where you want to write down important information or questions that come up during a conversation.
Notes
Don't forget to include your own notes about the company and the position you're applying for. Prepare short points you'd like to cover during the interview and questions you'd like to ask the interviewer.
Data: address, recruiter's phone number, directions
Another thing to have on hand is your contact information. Write down the company address, the recruiter's phone number, and directions. This is especially useful if you need to call if you get delayed or lost on the way to a meeting.
Umbrella and uk email list handkerchiefs
The value of an umbrella is only realized when you need it. Even if the weather seems sunny, unexpected showers can catch you off guard , and you don't want to arrive at your interview soaking wet. Don't forget tissues either - for quickly wiping off sweat if your interview is in a warm room/on a hot day, or if your clothes get stained.
Copy of CV and completed courses
A copy of your CV that you bring with you can be useful for referencing details of your work experience and qualifications during the interview, while certificates of completion of courses can confirm additional skills that you possess, which can contribute to the positive impression you make on the recruiter.
Portfolio
If you have a portfolio, be sure to bring it with you to the interview. It is a living testament to your skills and accomplishments – let your work speak for you! Show what you can do in practice, rather than just talk about it.
Reference
Finally, don't forget about references or letters of recommendation from previous employers. This is an additional asset that can convince the recruiter that you are the best choice for the position!
How to dress for an interview?
Before the interview, check to see if the company has specific dress code guidelines . If not, think about the image you want to convey. Match your attire to the industry and culture of the company—first impressions are key. If you want to go for colorful accents, remember color theory and how they affect our subconscious. What colors should you avoid and not wear to an interview? Check it out!
What should your outfit be like?
Clean
Ironed
Comfortable
Elegant
Subdued
Airy
See how to adapt your attire to the nature of your organization and industry requirements!
What not to do during a conversation?
Here's a list of things to avoid:
Lack of preparation :Nothing turns off a recruiter more than a candidate who shows no interest in the position or the company. Learning about the organization and its needs is essential.
Being perfect :Answers that are too perfect may seem unreliable. Be honest about your skills and experience.
Unpunctuality :Being late for an interview can ruin your first impression and only add unnecessary stress to your day.
Bad approach :Don't be too confident, but also don't be too secretive. Finding the middle ground is key.
Inappropriate clothing :The attire should be appropriate to the nature of the company and the position. Remember the dress code.
Taking the initiative :Remember that the recruiter is conducting the conversation. Do not try to take over.
Off-topic reply :Try to stick to the point and avoid straying off topic.
Answering only yes or no :Try to explain your answers, avoid simple “yes” or “no”.
Providing too much private information :Discussion about private life should be kept to a minimum.
Duplicate all information from your CV :The interview is an opportunity to expand on this information, not repeat it.
Summarizing your life story :Focus on the most important aspects of your career and experience.
No questions from the candidate :This is also the time for your questions. Ask them to learn more about the company and the position.
Speaking badly about a former employer :Avoid criticizing previous jobs. Focus on positive experiences and skills you have acquired.
Quick question about salary :The salary conversation should occur at the appropriate time, usually at the recruiter's initiative. Don't do it too early.
See also: Top 10 Job Interview Mistakes That Make You Look Bad!
Recruiter's most frequently asked questions + sample answers
It is important to know how to answer the recruiter's questions , because it is no easy feat!
Tell us about yourself in a few sentences.
I am a computer science graduate with two years of experience as a programmer. During my studies, I had the opportunity to work on various projects, which allowed me to develop my programming skills and gain experience in teamwork. I am interested in technology and always try to keep up with the latest trends in the IT industry.
What made you choose this particular field of study?
Choosing this particular field of study was a natural consequence of my interests and passions. I have been interested in topics related to computer science and technology since high school, so I decided to continue this path in college.
How did your education prepare you for the job you are applying for?
My education provided me with a solid theoretical and practical foundation in my field, allowing me to develop the necessary skills and competencies. During my studies, I had the opportunity to explore various aspects of my specialization and gain practical experience through projects and professional internships. Thanks to this, I am convinced that I have the right tools and knowledge needed to work effectively in the required area.
What makes you want to work for our company?
There are several reasons why I would like to work for your company. First, I admire the company's reputation and approach to innovation and quality. I have seen how your products/services change the industry and positively impact customers. Second, I like the working atmosphere that you promote as a company. I would like to be part of a team that is motivated to achieve high standards and strives for continuous improvement. Third, I identify with the values that your company represents and believe that I could make a significant contribution to the development and success of the company.
What are your strengths?
My strengths include the ability to communicate effectively both within a team and with clients. I am also very organized and have good time management skills, which allows me to complete tasks on time. I am also creative and able to make quick decisions, which allows me to effectively solve problems and take on new challenges.
What areas do you consider to be your weaknesses and how do you work on them?
One area I am still learning is how to delegate and trust other team members to get things done. Sometimes I tend to want to control every detail, which can lead to being too much of a burden. To work on this, I am actively learning to trust my coworkers and developing the ability to delegate effectively, which allows me to better utilize team resources and focus on more strategic aspects of the work.
Is our company one of several to which you have directed your CV?
Yes, I have sent my CV to several companies, but your company is one of my top choices due to its reputation in the industry and its ability to match my skills and career goals.
How do you assess our company's competition?
The competition in the industry seems to be diverse. However, after a thorough analysis of the market, I believe that your company stands out from the competition due to its innovative approach to products/services, high quality customer service and strong position in the market.
How do you rate our company's products (services)?
I rate your company's products/services very positively. I believe they are well-suited to customer needs and are of high quality. I am impressed by the company's innovation and commitment to continuous improvement of the solutions offered.
To what extent are you available?
I am ready to start work according to your preferences. My availability depends on the recruitment schedule and any notice period in my current job. I will be happy to adapt to your needs and set a start date that will be convenient for both parties.
What is your main motivation at work?
My main motivation at work comes from my passion for my duties and my desire for continuous professional development. I am motivated by the opportunity to acquire new skills, achieve goals and contribute to the success of the team and the organization.
How do you think you could contribute to the success of our company?
I am confident that I can contribute to the success of your company through my experience, skills, and commitment. I have solid knowledge of [field name], which can be a valuable contribution to achieving the company's goals. Additionally, my ability to work effectively both independently and in a team will allow me to effectively collaborate with other employees to achieve common goals. I am also open to learning and developing, which will allow me to adapt to the changing needs and requirements of the company.
Why did your cooperation with company X end?
The end of my previous job was primarily due to the need for professional development and the search for new challenges. I wanted to develop in a new direction and expand my skills, which is why I made the decision to end my previous cooperation.
See: How to answer questions about your previous job well!
What are your professional goals for the future, for example in 5 years?
My future professional goal is to develop my career by gaining new skills and experiences to advance to a higher position or take on more responsibility. I would also like to develop in an area that I am passionate about to be more and more effective in my work.
Can you name your most important successes or failures to date?
One of my greatest successes was leading project X, which brought the company savings of PLN Y per year through process optimization. As for failures, although each of them was a lesson, one of the most important was the experience when the team did not achieve the intended goal of the project due to the lack of a clear strategy. From this I learned a lesson for the future to always carefully analyze the goals and the action plan before starting a project.
What rate of pay satisfies you in the context of the job you are applying for?
I am open to discussion about remuneration, but above all, it is important to me that my skills and experience are properly appreciated and that the offer takes into account the full scope of my responsibilities and involvement in the project.
See: How to answer a recruiter's awkward questions!
Do you have any additional questions about the job offer or the company?
Yes, I have a few questions about day-to-day work and company culture. Can I learn more about the training and professional development opportunities available to employees? Is there a clear career path for employees and what are the expectations for achieving goals?
What should a recruiter not ask and how should you behave in such a situation?
Examples of questions a recruiter should not ask: