Oh, Hello London!
If you have just finished your semester or if you've completed your degree, you know why you should get a summer internship, or you might have spent the last few weeks searching for a job online or sending CVs and the phone has finally rung.
It's now time to get prepared for the hardest step: the job interview.
In my previous life, I used to work as a headhunter and management consultant, so I think I know a thing or two about hiring (and firing) people as well as all the interviewing techniques and HR secrets. So you might want to keep reading these tips if you are about to be grilled at a job interview in London.
1 - Get prepared
Showing that you have done your research and you know a thing or two about your potential employer shows that you actually care about the job. The company website normally is a great source of information as well as reading business magazines, newspapers and the reliable online sources. Additionally, you also have to be prepared for the most FAQ they might ask, like:
- Tell me your top 3 strengths and weaknesses
- Where do you see yourself five years from now?
- Why do you want to work here?
- What makes a good team player?
2 - Look Smart
Nothing new here as you must already know that you can't really go to an interview in your pyjamas or bikini. You do know that, right? Of course there are places that allow a more relaxed attire, but still don’t go there dirty, messy or smelly.
3 Be on time
Allow plenty of time to get the interview place without rushing or being stressed by delays. Prepare your outfit and everything you might need such as notebooks, pens and a copy of your CV, the night before. Calculate your journey and maybe test it if you have the opportunity.
4 Remember to smile
Remember to look your interviewer directly in the eye while focusing on what they are asking you. A smile is a universally known sign, from Delhi to Lisbon, from Oslo to Rome so make sure to smile whether you are interviewing in London or anywhere else on the planet. Yes, even if your hands are shaking and you are about to faint, at least you'll faint with a smile.
5 Be smart, but not a smarta**
Employers in London have access to some of the best talents and graduates in the world. Every year, Brits and international students flock to London to get a job in the city, so remember that the competition is bloody high. So you simply have to be the best. But leaving the arrogance out of the door. Don't ever lie. You'll get caught.
6 Keep it up
Even if something goes wrong during the interview, don’t let that kill your vibe. There is always time to fix it. Regain your composure, smile and listen to the next question.
7 Ask something
Never, ever say you don’t have questions. So make sure to prepare some questions for your interview. Some of them might be covered by the end of the interview, that’s why is good to prepare a few like:
- What are the main objectives and responsibilities of the position?
- How do you measure how successful I am in the role?
- What can I expect from the company in terms of future development?
And about the company culture: - What’s the company culture like?
- What is the turnover of the staff throughout the company?
- Are there any plans for expansion?
8 Take notes
With care but don’t lose attention and don’t forget to look your interviewer in the eye.
9 Don't talk about money
It is obvious a crucial element to take into consideration when you are about to take a job in London. However, don't rush into this subject during the interview. Actually, don't talk money at all unless the interviewer brings up the topic. If so, be realistic with your expectations and maybe do some online research to have a better idea of how to negotiate your salary.
10 Thank them
for the time they spent with you and end positively by saying something professional and positive like “I look forward to hearing from you.”
**With these tips, you are now ready to nail your interview in London.
Break a leg! **
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