How I did it: I re-read my application and the job description and thought of responses for possible questions. I planned for the assessment exercise and practiced using the technology. I did a LOT of research into the organisation. I did rehearsals with my outfit and make up. I spoke to friends (including a careers adviser) about what I should do.

Lessons & tips: 1* Research; it's good because you can apply your answers to the organisation, you're familiar with who you'll meet and much more confident as there are fewer surprises. I think this may have been what marked me out from the other candidates in the end as I felt comfortable there because I knew so much about the place
2* Practice; I didn't have a practice interview as I thought it would make me more nervous but I still chatted through with a careers adviser possible questions and what I might say in response
3* Preparation; how long does it take to get there? If the tube is delayed is there another route? What will happen if you're ill? Plus the usual preparation of going through your application and the job description/ person specification.
It may seem silly but a practice run with your interview outfit is very helpful. I made two mistakes with mine; I bought new socks and the different material to my usual squeaked when I walked, and I bought new trousers but didn't walk in them so although they were a good legnth in the fitting room they rose up to ankle swingers when I walked. This isn't enough for someone to refuse you a job obviously but it made me less confident to squeak along although making a joke of it helped.

Resources: The company's annual report, website, youtube page, blogs, twitters, facebook pages, staff profiles on LinkedIn. All very helpful for researching the culture of the place (the annual report mostly I think)
People are usually happy to help with interview prep as it's positive so I'd count them as a great resource.

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Sep 03, 02:11AM PDT | 0 comments | 2 cheers