Good first impressions are key, never more so than during interviews. The below advice constitutes some simple ways that you can stand out when you are job hunting in a competitive market.
- Making a good first impression remains critically important. How you present yourself, how you dress and how you interact with the interviewer can have a huge impact on your prospects
- Demonstrate interest and enthusiasm. You will be competing against numerous other candidates and showing you actually want the job will improve your chances
- Do basic research on the company and job before you arrive at the interview. Demonstrating awareness of the role and the company for whom you will be working will impress the interviewer and again, help you stand out against those who arrive unprepared
- Be aware of industry, market and economic developments and trends. Utilising the CISI website to brush up on what’s new will underline your enthusiasm
- Talk about training and exams and show that you are aware of and interested in the need for personal development. Referencing the CISI or equivalent industry body and exams to take helps demonstrate that you have done your homework
- Ask questions. The interview is your opportunity to find out as much about the role and company as you can. It should be a two way process
- Make your CV succinct and informative, stress your interests and hobbies and as ever, DO NOT lie or embellish – you will be caught out!