Do you want to improve your interview success rate?

Before your interview find out everything you can about the company.  By knowing what to expect you will be more confident and in control during your interview.

AAA will ensure you have the following information:

• The name and position of the person conducting the interview
• The company name, address and telephone number
• How to get there!
• The format of the interview and will there be any tests to perform
• The likely length of the interview so you can leave yourself plenty of time
• Read the company annual report which can be obtained by telephoning them and look on their website for company information, ask AAA for information on the company, read the business pages

Useful information to find out:

• What the company does - which sector do they operate in
• Who are their main competitors?
• Size of the organisation - number of employees - Aberdeen, nationally, internationally
• Market share?
• Is it part of a larger group/where does company originate
• Current Turnover

Re-read your CV, thinking through your own career and the questions they might ask you. You should try to anticipate the general questions which they will ask and also prepare some questions to ask them.

To do well at the interview you will need to convince the interviewer you are technically qualified to do the job. You will also need to show that you are sufficiently motivated to get the job done well and that you will fit in with the company's organisational structure and the team in which you will work.

You should dress smartly for the interview and should leave home earlier than you need to on the day of the interview - you may be delayed by traffic or for other reasons. Be courteous to all employees of the company.Offer your hand first and smile as you do so, this will disguise your nerves even if you are nervous! Always make direct eye contact and try to relax and be confident!

At the interview itself you must be positive about yourself and your abilities - but do not waffle. Think about your key strengths and weaknesses as this is a popular question - here are some key questions and answers to think about:

Why do you want this job?
Think carefully about this question. Stress the positive aspects which have attracted you to applying for this position. Do not mention the negative aspects of your current job or the job in question.

What qualities do you think will be required for this job?Their advertisement for the job may help you a little bit, but you should also think of the other qualities that may be required. These may include leadership ability, supervisory skills, communication skills, interpersonal skills, problem solving, analytical skills, etc.

What can you contribute?
This is your chance to shine. Tell them about your achievements in your previous position(s), which are relevant to the new position you are applying for.

Why do you want to work for this company?
Emphasize the positive reasons why you want to join their company, but avoid aspects such as more money or shorter hours. These would not endear you to a prospective employer.

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