Everyone preparing for a job interview needs to read this

Everyone preparing for a job interview needs to read this

Getting ready for a job interview can be a nerve-wracking experience, but these top tips will help you nail it

By Lydia Cerguera

Your application has been accepted. Your CV has been read. Now you’ve been invited to an interview for the job of your dreams.

How are you going to give the best possible account of yourself in just a half-hour conversation?  

This is the moment when anxiety sets in. How are you going to give the best possible account of yourself in just a half-hour conversation? How are you going to make a good impression?

To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of tips for interview success. Read them, and you’ll be ready for anything.

1. Turn up early

Apart from car crashes, train strikes, a national declaration of war, broken bones (you get the picture!) there is absolutely no excuse for arriving late to an interview.

Plan your journey. Check your petrol levels. Listen to the traffic news. Make sure you have parking money. Memorise the bus/train timetable.

Basically, do whatever is necessary to get there early. And by early, we mean half an hour at the very least.

That way, you have time to find the interview room, go to the toilet, calm down, drink some water, and get mentally prepared for the challenge ahead.      

Everyone preparing for a job interview needs to read this2. Do your homework

Find out as much as possible about your prospective employer prior to the interview. That enables you to demonstrate a real understanding of the company, which is sure to impress.

Another tip is to get some background on your interviewer, so that you can establish a rapport with them and show that you’re willing to go the extra mile in securing the job.

3. Read the job description. Then read it again

It’s surprising how many times interviewers have to remind people of what’s included in a job role, even though they’ve applied for the vacancy.

Read all the information provided in the job spec before the interview, and be sure to refer to it in your answers. This shows that you’ve thought about your application and what you can bring to the role. It may also help you work out if the job’s exactly what you want.

Your task is to show the interviewer that you can take direction and grow with the business, not that you want to take it over (yet).  

4. Manners maketh the man (and woman)

Good manners don’t cost anything and help you make a strong impression when meeting people for the first time.

Shake the interviewer’s hand at the beginning and end of the interview, make eye contact, thank them for their time, and sit up properly in your seat.

You may find that the interviewer is busy taking notes for a lot of the interview, so don’t worry if you can’t maintain eye contact while answering their questions. But be sure to look at them, rather than turning your face away. Even with their head down, they’ll be able to sense your engagement.

5. Be confident, but not too confident

Feeling geared up and ready to take on the world? Great, but don’t muddle that with sounding arrogant about your experience and knowledge.

Answer questions with grace, despite the fact you may think you’re perfect for the role. Your task is to show the interviewer that you can take direction and grow with the business, not that you want to take it over (yet).

Everyone preparing for a job interview needs to read this6. Don’t be afraid to ask questions before the big day

Most job adverts offer a chance to contact the employer before an interview to ask any questions. These may be about things such as working hours, the location, or the benefits package. Or maybe you just want to clarify some detail about the job spec.

It’s a good idea to get this sort of stuff out of the way prior to your interview. That will give you a clearer understanding of what’s on offer, as well as showing the interviewer that you’re taking the opportunity seriously.

7. Remember to whet your whistle

Bring a bottle of water to an interview, just in case the company doesn’t provide a drink. There’s nothing worse than tacky-mouth syndrome, especially when you’re trying to impress.

Keep the bottle in a discreet place and remember not to gulp back the entire contents within the first five minutes. It’s probably not a great idea to interrupt your interview with an emergency trip to the loo.

...no interviewer wants to see a candidate wearing a creased shirt with ketchup stains down the front.  

8. Turn your phone off, and put it away

You wouldn’t have your phone on at the cinema, so why would you keep it on during a potentially life-changing interview?

While it may be tempting to look like a powerhouse with your phone on the interview table, avoid this at all costs – it just shows the interviewer they are not worth your time.

9. Dress the part

It doesn’t matter if you’re going for a job at a fast-food chain or a high street bank, no interviewer wants to see a candidate wearing a creased shirt with ketchup stains down the front.

Smart clothes, a well-groomed but not fastidious appearance, and a nice clean aroma are just the ticket.

The interviewer needs to know you’ll take the role seriously. If you can’t leave the house looking smart, they’re unlikely to have confidence in your abilities.

10. Think about your answers. Don’t rush in

It can be tempting to leap in when the interview gets going, but most employers prefer candidates to take their time in answering questions. Better to give a thoughtful response after a brief pause than to jump in with something ill-considered.

Of course, if you think about potential questions before the interview, you may find you have some well-prepared answers up your sleeve. And that’s sure to make a good impression.

 

If you enjoyed this article, you may like: 
Weird interview questions you might get asked
Surprising jobs celebs did before they were famous

 

Published: 10 June 2024
© Copyright Just Recruitment Group Ltd 2024

Jobs currently available

New job
Export Administrator
Sector: Public Service and Administration
Salary: £28,000 - £34,000 per annum
Location: Halstead
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913722
About the role

Just Recruitment is supporting a well-regarded business based in Halstead with the recruitment of an Export Administrator to join their team.

You will be responsible for servicing current and prospective customers by receiving and processing orders, enquiries and general information in a timely and courteous manner.

Key tasks include:

  • Answering incoming calls, giving product information, lead times, dealing with general enquiries and queries, and redirecting calls to relevant departments.
  • Processing and managing export orders, shipments, and documentation in compliance with international regulations and procedures.
  • Providing excellent customer service and handling any queries or complaints related to export operations.
  • Maintaining accurate records and reports of export activities and transactions.

Key requirements include:

  • Excellent computer skills.
  • Good eye for detail.
  • The ability to work well under pressure.
  • Courteous.

Preferred experience includes:

  • Previous Export Administrative experience gained within an office environment.
  • Excellent telephone manner with the ability to communicate at all levels.
  • High level of attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office and experience with in-house systems.
  • Ability to multitask and prioritise own workload.
  • Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal.

Hours:

  • Monday to Thursday, 8.30am to 5.00pm.
  • Friday, 8.30am to 2.30pm.

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. The actual salary paid will be dependent on your level of experience, qualifications and skill set.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
Bench Joiner
Sector: Property and Construction
Salary: Competitive
Location: Colchester
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913700
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a growing organisation, based on the outskirts of Colchester, to recruit a Bench Joiner to join their highly skilled and established team.

You will be working on a variety of bespoke projects — the key purpose of this role is to manage your day-to-day duties, including carpentry using hand and power tools, framing and finish carpentry. This is a team role, working collaboratively across the wider business, to create exceptional joinery pieces.

Key requirements for this role:

  • Own set of tools is a must!
  • Experience in a similar role
  • 3D/2D design experience
  • Joinery background
  • High level of attention to detail
  • Effective analytical skills
  • Systematic approach to tasks

Working hours for this role are Monday to Friday. 07.30 to 16.30.

Over time is available.

Free on-site parking is available, along with a great working environment, opportunities for career progression, and the chance to work with new, automated processes and equipment — full training provided.

This role offers a really competitive package.

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
CAD Designer
Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing
Location: Colchester
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913701
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a successful and growing company based on the outskirts of Colchester, to recruit a CAD Designer to join their experienced and talented team.

In this role, you’ll be at the heart of the design process – creating detailed technical drawings for bespoke joinery projects, including cabinetry, furniture, and architectural woodwork. You'll work closely with the internal team to bring custom designs to life, ensuring every piece meets exact client specifications and supports seamless manufacturing.

Key duties include:

  • Technical drawing and design:
  • Create detailed 2D CAD drawings for custom joinery projects using AutoCAD.
  • Develop accurate and detailed technical drawings for manufacturing, including plans, elevations, sections, and detailed joinery components.
  • Interpret and translate client briefs, architectural drawings, and design concepts into technical drawings.
  • Ensure all drawings comply with industry standards, company specifications, and project requirements.

Collaboration and communication:

  • Work closely with the design team to understand project requirements and offer design input.
  • Collaborate with the production team to ensure drawings are feasible and align with manufacturing capabilities.
  • Liaise with Project Managers, Architects, and clients to resolve any design or technical issues.

Quality control:

  • Review and revise drawings based on feedback and ensure the accuracy of all final deliverables.
  • Maintain up-to-date project documentation and version control of drawings.
  • Conduct regular checks to ensure drawings meet company standards and regulatory requirements.

Role requirements include:

  • A degree or diploma in CAD, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
  • Proven experience (3+ years) as a CAD Technician, ideally within the joinery or woodworking industry.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD is essential.
  • Experience with other CAD and 3D modelling software, such as SolidWorks, preferred but not essential.
  • Strong understanding of joinery techniques, materials, and construction methods.
  • Excellent attention to detail and a keen eye for design.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically.
  • Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Professional, reliable and willing to learn.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a great team, offering a very competitive package and further development.

Working hours are Monday to Friday. 07.30 to 16.30.

Free parking is available on-site.

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
Cleaner (part-time)
Sector: Customer Services
Salary: £12.21 per hour
Location: Ipswich
Role: Part Time
Contract: Temporary
Job ref: JT-IPS-C-0725
About the role

Just Temps is supporting a company in Ipswich, seeking an experienced Cleaner to join their team on a temporary basis. This is a great opportunity for someone looking for short-term evening work.

Hours: 5.00pm to 9.00pm (Monday to Friday)

Role responsibilities include:

  • General office cleaning across multiple floors
  • Cleaning of toilets, canteen areas, and communal spaces
  • Lifting and transporting heavy cleaning equipment up and down stairs
  • Ensuring high standards of cleanliness are maintained throughout the building

Requirements:

  • Previous cleaning experience is essential
  • Capable of handling heavy equipment
  • Reliable and punctual with a strong work ethic
  • Comfortable working independently across various areas of the building

Benefits:

  • Competitive hourly rate
  • Evening hours – ideal for fitting around other commitments
  • Supportive team environment

Free parking is available on-site.

 

Just Temps acts as an Employment Business for the supply of Temporary Staff.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. 
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
Technical Support Supervisor
Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing
Location: Sudbury
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913720
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a growing organisation based in Sudbury to recruit a Technical Support Supervisor to join their long-standing team.

Due to business growth, this newly created position is responsible for supporting technical operations to ensure the smooth functioning of the technical systems, processes and projects under the guidance of the division's business leader.

The role is crucial in aligning the company’s technical capabilities with business goals, ensuring that the products are designed and manufactured/assembled to operate effectively and securely.

You will need to demonstrate experience in project management and implementation, technical experience and industry best practices. You will also need to show knowledge of compliance with relevant laws, regulations and industry standards.

Key requirements include:

  • Troubleshooting skills, to investigate and resolve technical issues relating to products
  • Provide technical support and training to other team members, including sales
  • Support the development and implementation of new products
  • Ability to produce accurate bills of materials (BOMS) and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
  • Experience in computer-aided design (CAD) and the ability to produce product drawings
  • Basic software programming skills would be an advantage
  • Sound understanding of electronics

This is a site-based role.

This role offers a very competitive package and a great working environment.


Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
Product Sales Executive
Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing
Location: Sudbury
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913721
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a growing business based in Sudbury, looking to add a Product Sales Executive to its long-established team.

Due to continued business growth, this newly created role will be responsible for building and managing relationships with both direct customers and distributors to drive revenue. The position forms part of the sales and marketing team.

Key duties include:

  • Qualifying and identifying customer needs, presenting product features and benefits, negotiating sales terms and ensuring customer satisfaction.
  • Selling to existing and new customers, building and maintaining client relationships, meeting sales targets, and developing your industry knowledge.
  • Identifying, qualifying, onboarding, and managing key partners to ensure they are motivated and aligned with business goals.
  • Demonstrate monitoring and reporting capability.

Key requirements include:

  • Proven experience in product sales.
  • Experience in qualifying and prospecting for new clients.
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, relationship-building and written skills with the ability to build rapport with customers, listen to their needs and effectively communicate product information.
  • Nurture relationships with existing customers to ensure satisfaction and identify repeat business opportunities.
  • Ability to demonstrate product features and explain benefits.
  • A solid understanding of the sales cycle and sales techniques is critical. Ability to close deals, negotiate and handle objections.
  • Effective time management — to be able to prioritise tasks, manage sales activities and meet deadlines.

This is a site-based role, but there is an expectation that you will spend a significant portion of the role outside the office with clients, prospects, and business partners.

This role offers a very competitive salary and package.

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
Industrial Sales Manager
Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing
Location: Sudbury
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913719
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a growing organisation, based in Sudbury, looking to add an Industrial Sales Manager to their team.

Due to continued business growth, this is a newly created role for a high-performing Sales Manager with a background in engineering sales.

The key purpose of this role is to build and manage relationships with industrial users of their systems and channel partners across numerous sectors.

You will be experienced in developing and executing sales strategies to expand market reach and deliver growth in sales.

Specifically, you will have a track record of identifying, qualifying, onboarding and managing key customers, specifiers and partners, ensuring they are motivated and aligned with all industrial products and company goals.

Key requirements include:

  • Proven experience in engineering/industrial sales.
  • Experience in qualifying and prospecting for new clients.
  • Possess excellent communication, interpersonal, relationship-building, and written skills, with the ability to build rapport with customers, listen to their needs, and effectively communicate product information.
  • A solid understanding of the sales cycle, purchasing process and sales techniques in industrial sales is critical.
  • Ability to develop and execute direct sales and channel strategies, aligned with the company’s goals.
  • Ability to demonstrate effective time management skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks, manage sales activities, and meet deadlines.

This role offers an incredibly competitive package including company benefits and incentives.

The role is primarily office-based, with regular travel required to visit clients, prospects, and partners.

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more