Preparation
Before your interview conduct a mini self assessment of your profile, your work experience so far, the qualifications you have and where you want your career to go. Jot down a few points about your strengths and weaknesses so that you have a clear idea of what to say in the interview. Here are a couple of points to consider: Self-confidence - commitment & determination - stamina - initiative - organisational ability - judgement - sensitivity.
Positive thinking
The most important thing to take with you to an interview is a positive attitude. Here are a few points to help you develop a positive frame of mind:
- Remind yourself that they’ve short-listed you from many other applicants
- Feeling nervous is perfectly normal, it’s a sign of anticipation
- Without feeling over-confident, it’s surprisingly effective if you go into an interview with the attitude that they want you more than you want the job
- Know the company
Here's a list of some of the information worth researching:
- What is the exact nature of the company’s business?
- What are its key product/service portfolios?
- Who are its main competitors?
- Has it been in the press recently?
- Who are the MD and other relevant directors?
- How many staff does it have? What is the average age, company culture?
Body language
Whether we like it or not, our body language gives off very subtle signs about us.
- Research shows tone of voice and body language accounts for 65% of what’s communicated, words account for 35%
- Positive body language - leaning forward, nodding and verbal acknowledgement
- Smiling, attentive eye contact
- Negative body language - slumped posture, foot tapping, eyes averted, leaning too far forward, fidgeting, arms crossed.
Dress
Our appearance says a lot about who we are. You’re bound to feel nervous before the interview so looking good will help boost your confidence. You need to look clean, smart, but understated. Avoid arriving overloaded with bags, and try not to wear an item that hasn’t been worn before, it could turn out to be uncomfortable and distracting.
Voice
A good CV and all the right answers to the toughest interview questions won’t land you the job if your voice gives off an entirely different impression. It is important to project yourself confidently.
- Speak clearly, avoid a monotone
- Pause before speaking, this avoids instinctively reacting and saying the wrong thing
- Don’t mumble or gabble
- Watch your pitch and avoid a ‘sing-song’ tone
The interview
First impressions, lasting impressions. From the moment you enter the building, you should think of yourself as a potential employee. Try to remain calm and confident with a firm (but not finger-crushing) handshake. It’s a good idea to ask for a glass of water, you’re going to be doing a lot of talking.
- Always adopt a professional manner
- Listen intently
- Ask relevant questions
- Speak clearly and with confidence
Questions, questions
To help you get to grips with the range of possible questions you might get asked we’ve listed some of them:
- What kind of experience do you have to benefit this job?
- What is your greatest strength/weakness?
- What interests you most/least about this job?
- How do you take direction?
- What kind of decisions are most difficult for you?
- Do you prefer working with others or alone?
Interview the interviewer
Do you have any questions? This is when you can breathe a sign of relief, it usually means that the interview is coming to an end and if there’s something you haven’t yet had a chance to impress upon the interviewer, this is your chance. Try to limit yourself to the most significant questions.
- Why has the job become vacant?
- What your first assignment would be?
- How do you review performance?
Final check list
- Aim to refine your profile into a 50 word description - memorise it
- Assess your strengths and skills and prioritise them
- Cover your limitations with valid alternatives
- Make the interviewer feel you are the most competent person for the job
- Build your preparation on solid self-esteem
- Think positively
- Know the job and company thoroughly before going into the interview
- Know exactly where the interview is, and how long it will take to get there
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If you can't find a specific job on the site, but still feel your skills would be suitable for Frazer-Nash Consultancy, simply email your CV and a covering letter to: cv@fnc.co.uk
We are always pleased to receive applications from well-qualified engineers at all levels of experience with interests in mechanical engineering, simulation and project management.
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