The construction industry is in rather a state of flux at the moment and many workers are worried about the security of their current roles.
It could be that you are facing the prospect of attending an interview for the first time in a while or you simply might not fully understand the current interview etiquette in a world where what is acceptable is constantly changing.
Whatever the reason, if you are due to attend an interview, even a video interview, then here are the basics that our highly experienced consultants believe are essential for any interview to be successful:
- First impressions really do count: it is surprising how many candidates get the job when they aren’t the most qualified or experienced.
Why? They made the best first impression. Too many candidates, even the best on paper, turn up late, poorly dressed or without knowing anything at all about the company they are asking to give them a job. - How you dress does matter: you might be warned of embarrassing stories of candidates turning up for interviews in a full suit and tie where everyone else is sat around on beanbags wearing kaftans!
The truth is, you will never go wrong with wearing smart business attire nor will being well groomed ever go against you. Even if an employer doesn’t expect it they will appreciate your commitment and the effort made. - Preparation really is key: no matter how skilled, qualified, knowledgeable or talented you might be, will never make a great impression if you know nothing about the company or the sector they work in.
Everything you could possibly want to know about virtually any company is literally at the tap of a button, so make the time to make sure you are as well informed as can be. - Be able to back up what you say with real examples: remember whoever is interviewing you has heard it all before so just giving answers such as “I’m really target driven” will soon be forgotten.
The candidate who talks about the exciting project they worked on that exceeded all targets and was brought in 2 weeks before deadline and x number of pounds under budget, for example, will be remembered. - Go for all interviews you commit to: not turning up or cancelling at the last minute is never ok. You might even have gotten cold feet about the role or employer after your research.
You will never truly know if the role or company is suitable unless you
go for the interview and you can raise any questions you have then. - We want you to do well: the person who is interviewing you wants you to be their perfect candidate. They want you to do well and are only pressing for further information to confirm that. They are not looking to trip you up or catch you out!
Good luck!