How to be successful in interviews

How to be successful in interviews

The day of your interview has arrived, you really want, you need this job. You’re nervously waiting in reception with all the other candidates for the interviewer to call your name, you’re thinking “are they more experienced than me? They look confident, they look like they are ready to go”. They may have what it takes to do the job, but can they smash this interview like you can?

Just like everyone else in their working life, we all have to attend at least one dreaded job interview. If you want to succeed in the business world you have to climb the career ladder, having rivals at each interview, everyone wants that ‘great opportunity’ and to be successful. With almost all industries being highly competitive how do you stand out from other candidates and steal that job from under your competition's nose?

With almost all industries being highly competitive how do you stand out from other candidates...  

Just Recruitment has made a name for itself over the last 40 years, we aren’t just a recruitment company that helps people get a job, we get individuals the job. We provide candidates with CV and interview preparation tips, we provide them with the skills they need to get the job.

Here at Just Recruitment, we want you to succeed therefore we have detailed below the information you need to sail through the interview and secure that job.

Self-Image

Self-image is becoming increasingly important within the life of business, but on a scale of 1 – 10 how much thought do you put into creating a positive first impression?

In today’s fast-paced society, it only takes a couple of seconds for interviewers to judge your personal image and to know if you are the right person for that role. Typically, 60% of an interviewer’s decision is based on how you present yourself, 25% is your handshake, that leaves just 15% for the words we use.

Your CV may have gotten you through the door but now it’s time for your personality to shine.

We believe that projecting the correct corporate image is a definitive moment for all employers and in fact recruitment agencies too. First impressions are key, now that you are through the door you have to emphasise your “wow” factor.

Communication Skills

How you communicate is crucial. Soft skills and good communication are just as, if not more important than the qualifications you have presented to the interviewers.

How to be successful in interviewsKey things you need to remember during the interview:

  • Be clear and concise (try not to mumble or waffle on, get your point across).
  • Do not rush your words, take it slow.
  • Remember who you are talking to.

Perception

How do you want to be perceived? Think about how you are coming across when meeting new people.

What do you stand for? Do you know what your values are? If you are unsure, or you just presume that you make a good first impression, get your friends and family to test you and remember to get feedback.

Preparation

First things first, be prepared. Your interviewer is a skilled business person, they know what they are looking for in a candidate.

It is astounding to know that many people show up to their interviews not prepared, not knowing the name of the potential employer, not doing their research. Here are some points to help you prepare.

  • Know your potential employer, company and interviewer.
  • Make sure you know where you are going so you aren’t late.
  • Research the company, what they do, what its values are, what services do they provide, what and who is their target market.
  • Know the job specification that you are being interviewed for.
  • Be ready for questions, conventional and unconventional, they may ask about your work ethic, your functions in your current employment or how you approach tasks.
  • Ask questions, it shows that you are inquisitive, you are keen about the job and the company.
  • We understand that you want to ask about the benefits of their company such as; holiday, salary, bonus’ but you need to be patient as these questions should be asked on the second or final interview.
  • Always speak positively about moving forward.
Research the company, what do they do, what its values are, what services do they provide...  

Attitude

Have a can-do attitude. It’s never a good start if you don’t look or sound happy to be there, a smile does go a long way.

Ensure you are punctual, arrive at least five – ten minutes early. The interviewer tends to keep people waiting, it’s one of their many tactics so don’t sweat it.

If you are going to be late, let someone know as soon as possible whether it be your agency or the client themselves.

Positives

From the start of your application you are portraying who you are, therefore when you complete your application form ensure everything is filled out neatly and to the best of your ability. Don’t be lazy.

Again smile. A little smile never hurt anyone.

Make eye contact when speaking with your interviewer(s), try not to let your eyes wander.

Conduct yourself as a strong individual and you are there to secure the job.

You are there to sell yourself, accentuate your positives. Make the interviewers aware of the positives you can bring to the company if you were to secure the position.

When answering questions, ensure you are giving truthful answers and not eccentric lies, they will figure it out.

Lastly, remember you are selling yourself, you are marketing yourself and alerting them that your skills, attributes and your experiences are all relevant to the position and the culture of the client’s business.

Negatives

Try your best to avoid answering questions with closed answers, instead of answering with a ‘yes or a no’ try and expand on your answer, engage with the questions.

Never insult or make derogatory remarks about your current or past employers.

Turn your phone on silent or switch it off! The dreaded ‘buzz’ of a ringing phone will dash any hopes of a second interview.

Dress Code

There’s no such thing as overdressing for an interview. Go in your best bib and tucker and you’ll never feel anything less than a decent candidate who’s keen to impress.

Always wear your smartest clothes, this demonstrates to the company and interviewer how keen you are on the job, you’re showing them that you know how to behave in their world.

Avoid. Avoid. Avoid!

  • Don’t lack enthusiasm, don’t sit there acting as if you don’t care about the job. They won’t hire you if you’re not interested.
  • Overbearing, aggressive, arrogant or a ‘know-it-all’.
  • Weak handshake.
  • Don’t disrespect your previous colleagues or employers.
  • Failure to keep good eye contact.
  • Try not to talk about the salary too much.
  • Don’t forget your manners, a lack of maturity or courtesy is a big no, no and it will not be appreciated if you come across rude.
  • Do not show up looking scruffy as discussed above, dress to impress.

Closing interview

Now the interview is coming to an end, if you are interested in the role it may be time to ask about the next interview stage(s) if applicable. If you are offered the job on the spot you don’t have to accept it right away, you can ask for time to think about your decision, it might be a good idea to ask them if they can wait until a certain date.

Don’t be discouraged or panic if you haven’t got a decision from the recruiters immediately, they probably have other interviews booked or they would like time to make their decision, after all they need to pick the appropriate candidate for the role.

Sometimes you may get the impression that you haven’t got the job, or you get the feeling that you haven’t impressed the recruiter, however, you may be surprised that interviewers don’t always convey their emotions and you may have successfully landed the role. Patience is a virtue.

Finally thank the interviewers for interviewing you and giving you this opportunity.

Now relax you’ve got this!

 

If you enjoyed this article, you may also like:
Banish interview nerves: a four-step plan
Five goals to achieve within your first year at a new job

 

Published: 29 January 2025
© Copyright Just Recruitment Group Ltd 2025

Jobs currently available

New job
Mechanical Maintenance Engineer
Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing
Location: Stoke-on-Trent
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913716
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a growing manufacturing business based on the outskirts of Stoke-on-Trent to recruit a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer to join their long-standing team on a permanent basis.

The key purpose of this role is to provide a knowledgeable, safe, cost effective, efficient multi-skilled maintenance service to the site that adheres to all engineering/electrical standards and procedures for compliance with statutory and business requirements.

Key duties include:

  • Undertaking maintenance activities on all buildings, plant and services in a safe and cost-effective manner through effective maintenance programs, ensuring traceable and auditable records are maintained.
  • Ensuring the changes to plant and infrastructure are adequately managed via the Management of Change site procedure.
  • Ensuring that all engineering/maintenance work undertaken is compliant with relevant site and regulatory regulations.
  • Identifying, ordering and supporting the business in ordering parts or services required to satisfy the day-to-day engineering requirements of the business, and to manage/control the level of spares to be held on-site as deemed necessary.
  • Undertaking and supporting the coordination and implementation of any capital projects or site improvement works, including the installation and commissioning of new equipment.
  • Working with Site Management, Production and Technical teams to identify plant efficiency and minimise processing times, ensuring data is recorded to enable analysis to take place.
  • Utilising the computerised Maintenance System to work effectively, ensuring schedule adherence and updating all maintenance records in a timely manner.
  • Undertaking failure mode investigations to identify root cause failures and document.
  • Ensuring all engineering contractors meet the agreed standards and competencies required to carry out maintenance and engineering tasks on-site.
  • Performing all duties in compliance with all EHS, business conduct policies, guidelines, and local Life Saving Rules at all times.

Key requirements for the role:

  • Recognised apprenticeship or ONC/Level 3 in Mechanical Engineering.
  • 3 years’ experience in mechanical engineering.
  • 3 years’ experience working in manufacturing environments.
  • Experience in fault identification/repairing, and maintaining motors, instruments and control panels.
  • Undertake basic welding tasks.
  • Experience in repairing effluent/water pumps.
  • Broad knowledge of pneumatic, air logic, pressure and hydraulic systems.
  • Willingness to gain skills in electrical fault-finding and PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers).
  • Ability to read, interpret and understand technical documents and drawings.
  • Experience of working in Zoned Areas, and knowledge of ATEX Equipment.
  • IOSH trained in Working Safely.
  • Mobile boom and scissor lift trained.
  • Gas Safe / Gas qualification.

This is a full-time permanent role on a 2 shift rotating pattern:

  • Mon – 6.15 am – 2.00 pm, Tues - Thurs – 5.45 am – 2.00 pm, Fri – 5.45 am – 1.15 pm, each day with 2 x half-hour paid breaks, total 39.5 hours.
  • Mon – Thurs – 1.30 pm – 9.45 pm, Fri – 12.15 pm – 7.15 pm, each day with 2 x half hour paid breaks, total 40.5 hours.

This role offers a stable team environment, along with opportunities to progress and develop your skills.

 

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
Warehouse Operative
Sector: Warehouse
Salary: £12.25 - £13.07 per hour
Location: Snetterton
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913715
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a growing organisation, based near Snetterton, to recruit a Warehouse Operative on a permanent basis to their long-standing team.

The key purpose of this role is to ensure that all items are correctly received and packed to meet company requirements.

Duties include:

  • Operating MHE safely and effectively according to requirements
  • Unloading goods-in
  • Checking in goods
  • Putting away products, keeping the warehouse tidy
  • Picking products as per order requirements
  • Checking orders, ensuring accuracy
  • Packing orders to ensure safety in delivery
  • Loading deliveries
  • Undertaking any other duties as may be required
  • Using WMS

Key skills required:

  • Good level of numeracy and literacy
  • Basic PC skills
  • Knowledge of company's health and safety policy
  • Housekeeping awareness
  • Qualifications to operate Bendi/Flexi
  • Physically active

Please note that this is a very manual-based role; you will need to be able to lift heavy items safely.

Due to the company’s location, you must have access to your own transport.

This is a great opportunity to join a friendly team.

 

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
Brand Coordinator
Sector: Customer Service
Salary: Discussed on application
Location: Braintree, Essex
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913714
About the role

Just Recruitment is supporting a well-regarded business based in Braintree who are recruiting for a Brand Coordinator to add to their team.

This role will involve working closely with Account Managers on new developments, handling samples of new products and sending them to the client for approval.

Duties will include:

  • Liaising with design to generate new artwork and amend existing artwork correctly
  • Liaising with purchasing at UK and international sites to obtain pricing and sampling quotations, and updating the CRM/Creator system accordingly
  • Handling customer enquiries and complaints efficiently and resolving them to a successful resolution
  • Producing periodic reports when required for the Account Manager and the client
  • Monitoring stock usage of certain products and taking ownership for ordering stock within company guidelines
  • Setting up brand manuals to include order forms, procedures, item references and prices
  • Keeping department code lists and size charts up-to-date
  • Liaising with the international sites regarding customer and retailer enquiries in regard to the production and dispatch of products
  • Keeping the CRM/Creator updated with all relevant artwork required for each brand
  • Assisting order processing as and when required, paying attention to detail

Working hours: Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5.00pm.

 

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
Counterbalance Forklift Driver
Sector: Production and Stock Control
Salary: £12.70 per hour
Location: Halstead, Essex
Role: Full Time
Contract: Temporary to Permanent
Job ref: JT-HAL-CFD-0725
About the role

Just Temps seeks an experienced Counterbalance Forklift Driver looking for a fresh start with a company in Halstead, Essex, that values hard work and reliability. This could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

What’s in it for you?

This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to build a long-term career. Starting on a temporary basis, this role offers the genuine opportunity to go permanent. You'll be joining a close-knit team within a growing business where your efforts are recognised and rewarded.

About the role:

  • Operating a Counterbalance forklift safely and efficiently
  • Loading and unloading deliveries
  • Moving stock within the warehouse
  • Supporting the wider warehouse team with general duties
  • Maintaining a clean and safe working environment

Hours:

  • Monday to Friday
  • 6.00am to 2.00pm
  • Weekly pay
  • Ongoing support and progression opportunities

What we’re looking for:

  • A valid Counterbalance forklift licence
  • Previous warehouse or forklift experience
  • A strong work ethic and a team-player mindset
  • Punctuality, reliability, and attention to detail

This is a fantastic opportunity to secure stable, long-term work with the potential to grow within the company.

 

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
Procurement Manager
Sector: Purchasing and Merchandising
Salary: £40,000 - £50,000 per annum
Location: Sudbury
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913713
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a growing manufacturing business, based on the outskirts of Sudbury, to recruit a Procurement Manager to join their growing team.

About the role:

  • The primary purpose of this role is to lead the procurement function in delivering greater strategic and operational value, supporting the achievement of key business objectives.
  • This is a hands-on, strategic and operational role that requires a confident leader with deep procurement expertise and the ability to inspire and develop a team.
  • You will work closely with the Supply Chain Manager to shape and implement a fit-for-purpose procurement strategy, ensuring alignment with business goals across quality, cost, sustainability and risk management. This role is pivotal in maintaining robust and value-driven supplier relationships while enabling continuous improvement in all procurement activities.
  • You will also oversee raw material planning and call-offs, ensuring that the business maintains the right balance between availability and inventory control — essential for production continuity and working capital efficiency.
  • This role includes direct line management of a Procurement Specialist, supporting their development and day-to-day activity management.

Key duties include:

  • Develop and implement a comprehensive procurement strategy aligned with business objectives, operational needs and sustainability goals.
  • Identify, evaluate, and manage suppliers across raw materials, packaging, and indirect categories to ensure quality, continuity and cost-effectiveness.
  • Collaborate with the Supply Chain Manager and other departments to align procurement with broader supply chain goals and business plans.
  • Contribute to the company’s sustainability, traceability and ethical sourcing commitments through strategic supplier partnerships.
  • Oversee the procurement of raw materials, packaging, indirect goods and services, and CAPEX items, ensuring optimal quality, cost and delivery performance.
  • Manage tendering processes, contract negotiation and supplier onboarding activities.
  • Ensure the ERP system is updated and used effectively for procurement activities and reporting.
  • Monitor and report on procurement KPIs, savings and supplier performance metrics.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and service providers, driving continuous improvement and innovation.
  • Lead supplier performance reviews, audits and corrective action processes.
  • Identify and assess risks within the supply base and implement mitigation strategies to ensure business continuity.
  • Lead, mentor and develop the procurement team to achieve high levels of engagement, performance and professional growth.
  • Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous learning within the team.
  • Support the wider Supply Chain team by contributing to cross-functional initiatives and projects.
  • Ensure adherence to company procurement policies, financial controls and ethical standards.
  • Support internal and external audits with relevant documentation and compliance reporting.
  • Drive process improvement initiatives and embed best practices across the procurement function.
  • Build and nurture key working relationships with Production, Quality Assurance, Finance, Warehousing, Sales and Commercial Teams, Suppliers, Logistics Providers and Regulatory Bodies.

This is an excellent opportunity to drive change within a business — offering a great working environment.

Working hours for this role are Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm — although some flexibility is required.

Please note that due to the location of the business, you must have access to your own transport.

 

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
Production Operative
Sector: Production and Stock Control
Salary: £12.21 per hour
Location: Hadleigh
Role: Full Time
Contract: Temporary to Permanent
Job ref: JT-HAD-PO-0725
About the role

Just Temps is excited to be supporting a fantastic company based in Hadleigh, assisting with the search for dedicated Production Operatives to join their friendly and fast-paced team.

This is an immediate start, temp-to-perm opportunity role!

You will be working in a clean, well-organised working environment, and full training will be provided — no previous experience required.

This role involves:

  • Manual production work
  • Standing on your feet and using your hands for the majority of the shift
  • Supporting day-to-day operations on the production line
  • Following health & safety procedures at all times

What we’re looking for:

  • A strong work ethic and attention to detail
  • Reliability and punctuality are essential
  • Own transport – the site is not accessible by public transport
  • Safety shoes and long workwear are required

If you're ready to start immediately and want to be part of a stable, supportive team, we’d love to hear from you.

Hours:

  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • No weekends
  • Overtime

 

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
Production Operative
Sector: Warehouse
Salary: £12.21 per hour
Location: Braintree
Role: Full Time
Contract: Temporary
Job ref: JT-BRA-PO-0725
About the role

Just Temps is working with a respected manufacturing business based near Braintree to help them look for a reliable and motivated Production Operative to join their specialist production team.

This is a temp-to-perm opportunity role!

Hours: Day shift, Monday to Friday, 38 hours per week.

Why this role?

This is a hands-on role and a great opportunity to be part of a highly skilled and collaborative team that works in a modern, clean, and controlled environment. You’ll be working with precision-manufactured products, contributing to a business that’s been going strong for decades, and if all goes well, this could become a long-term position.

What’s in it for you?

  • Eligible for a generous annual bonus (typically around 10%). Discretionary and not guaranteed
  • Full training provided
  • Clean and safe working conditions
  • Daytime working hours – keep your evenings free

What will you be doing?

You’ll be based in a specialised area. Typical tasks will include:

  • Polishing and finishing high-quality components
  • Preparing moulds and applying coatings
  • Carefully mixing and pouring resins using vacuum systems
  • Assembling parts and preparing them for final inspection
  • Maintaining a clean and tidy workspace, wearing full PPE

Who we’re looking for:
We need someone who is:

  • Practical, hands-on, and detail-oriented
  • Comfortable working with materials like resins and glues
  • Flexible and willing to learn new tasks within the department
  • Committed to health & safety and quality standards
  • Own transport is essential due to the location

Previous manufacturing or cleanroom experience is a bonus, but not essential – just bring a strong work ethic and willingness to learn.

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
Procurement Specialist
Sector: Purchasing and Merchandising
Salary: Competitive
Location: Sudbury
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913712
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a growing manufacturing business, based on the outskirts of Sudbury, to recruit a Procurement Specialist to join their growing team.

The key purpose of this role is to be responsible for the procurement of raw materials, packaging, and indirect goods to support production requirements and business operations. This role ensures cost-effective purchasing while maintaining high standards of quality and supplier performance. In addition to purchasing responsibilities, the role owns the material planning function, ensuring optimal stock levels, accurate forecasting, and uninterrupted material supply to meet production schedules.

Key duties include:

  • Source, negotiate and purchase raw materials, packaging and consumables to meet business needs.
  • Maintain strong relationships with existing suppliers and develop new supplier partnerships.
  • Conduct regular supplier reviews on performance, pricing, lead times and compliance with company standards.
  • Issue and manage purchase orders (POs) to ensure timely deliveries and cost control.
  • Support cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or compliance.
  • Take full ownership of the material planning process across all SKUs.
  • Develop, manage and maintain the material requirements plan (MRP) based on weekly production schedules and forecasts.
  • Maintain accurate inventory levels of raw materials and packaging to avoid shortages or excess stock.
  • Collaborate closely with production, warehousing and quality teams to ensure alignment on stock availability and usage.
  • Monitor inventory trends and flag risks related to potential shortages or delays.
  • Create and maintain rolling forecasts for materials based on sales, production plans and market trends.
  • Lead the weekly forecasting process, collaborating with production planning and commercial teams.
  • Analyse historical data to improve forecast accuracy and responsiveness to demand changes.
  • Maintain accurate records in the ERP system.

This is an excellent opportunity to grow and develop with the team and business.

This role offers a positive work environment with free parking available on-site.

Due to the company’s location, you must have access to your own transport.

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.

 

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
Warehouse Operative (with FLT licence)
Sector: Warehouse
Salary: £12.49 - £13.07 per hour
Location: Snetterton
Role: Full Time
Contract: Temporary
Job ref: JT-SNE-WO-0725
About the role

Just Temps is supporting a company in Snetterton, looking for a reliable and flexible Warehouse Operative with FLT licence to join their team.

This is a temp-to-perm opportunity role!

Hours:

  • Contracted: 8.00am to 4.30pm
  • Typical: 8.00am to 5.00pm (Monday to Thursday)
  • Early finish at 2.30pm on Fridays

This is a blended role — while FLT licences are essential, this is not a full-time FLT position. You’ll also be expected to handball stock, work on warehouse management systems, and assist across various departments.

Pay rate depends on your FLT licence:

  • PPT Operator — £12.49
  • Counterbalance / HLOP — £12.77
  • Bendi / VNA Driver — £13.07

What we’re looking for:

  • Valid FLT licence (Counterbalance, PPT, Bendi, VNA, or HLOP)
  • Willing to lift, shift, and get stuck in
  • Basic computer skills and attention to detail
  • A strong work ethic and positive attitude
  • Keen to secure a long-term, permanent opportunity

About the role:
You'll be supporting various warehouse operations. This includes:

  • Operating FLT as required
  • Manual handling and handballing
  • Data entry and stock checks
  • General warehouse duties

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. 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