Interview Skills

The Golden Rules... We are sure that everyone you speak with will have advice about how best to interview. However, on the whole there are a few basic rules you can follow that will ensure you are best placed to do well and secure the position you want:

Rule 1 – Presentation

It may seem obvious, but this is where many people get it seriously wrong.
The aim is to give a good impression so think “Corporate”
This is the opportunity to sell yourself – you are looking for your next Sales role and this is your talent showcase – don’t waste it!
Always wear a dark business suit, light business shirt / top, plain tie (if applicable!) and tidy, polished shoes. 
Remove any facial piercings, cover any tattoos and keep your hair neat and tidy.
With make up, perfume/aftershave and jewellery, less is always more
If you are a smoker, ensure you do not stub out immediately before you walk in the company door – you don’t want the first impression you give to be of a well dressed ashtray!
Similarly ensure you have fresh breath (no garlic or alcohol) - breath mints are a great idea
Do not chew gum – would you do it in a client meeting or presentation?
If you know the company has a dress down policy, it is better to be business like and conservative in your appearance for that all important first impression.
Once you have the job you can assert your personality – don't risk it before you know for sure it is acceptable!

Rule 2 – Prepare 

You wouldn't go to a sales meeting without proper preparation and exactly the same applies to attending interviews - take a copy of your CV, a pad on which you have pre-written a few questions, a pen that works, a pack of tissues (in case) and before you go in make sure you switch off your mobile!
Make sure you know what your own CV has on it and that you understand your figures from previous positions (it sounds so straight forward but you really would be surprised!!!).
There is nothing that ruins an interview quicker than a candidate who cannot relay basic information about previous roles.
Make sure you know your monthly / annual targets, what you achieved, how much you earned, where your leads came from, who your clients were, methods of prospecting new business, how you retained clients, length of sales cycles and anything else that demonstrates what you have done and how successful you have been.
Above all listen to any advice your consultant gives you – they will have built a good relationship with the client, will be able to give you all the background information you need and will know exactly what is being looked for to fill the vacancy.

Rule 3 – The First Impression

As the saying goes you only get one chance.
Look good, feel good and believe you will be successful.
Use a firm hand shake and thank your interviewer for the opportunity to meet with them.
Smile, smile, smile - obviously not bordering on lunacy, however appearing relaxed (albeit whilst fighting down the butterflies) will ensure you exude an air of confidence and lets face it you may not be the only nervous person in the room – interviewers can be nervous too!!

Rule 4 – Clarity (Listen, Clarify, Understand, Respond)

You have two ears and one mouth it’s a classic sales rule but so true and as you are selling your abilities and experience ensure that you hear and respond to every question clearly.
As we know, selling is information gathering to identify a need and provide the right solution.
Therefore use the interview to gain information about the interviewer and their business.
Take a note book and use it! Have a minimum of 5 pre prepared questions (not just salary and benefits etc), note down your information exactly the same way you would with a Prospect or Client
This is potentially the most important meeting of your life to date as the outcome may decide your next career move, therefore, make it an interactive session not a one sided barrage of questions (on either side)
Ask your interviewer questions about their role, how long they have been with the company, what their progression path has been and so on.
If during your interview all of your prepared questions are answered, mention this, going over anything that wasn’t entirely clear (Think Yes String and Reconfirmation of Fact)
Above all ensure you answer any direct questions directly (no wishy washy answers) and confirm that your response actually answers the question asked!

Rule 5 – CLOSE!!!

No matter what position you are on interview for be it entry level or high powered you must close the interview.
Use your closing skills to establish the next step in the process and clarify whether you will be included.
No Sales Manager or Director will mind being closed – in fact they expect it, will note it and may even acknowledge it!
You may not get a direct answer (although you never know until you ask!) however the fact that you tried to close them down will prove that you are capable of asking for the order in their business.
Bear in mind that certain close styles (“When do I start?”) can be seen as arrogant so use the close appropriate to the audience and with caution.
However, if you feel uncomfortable with the thought of closing at interview we would suggest that you avoid sales altogether!!

Rule 6 – Feedback

Call or text your AIDA consultant as soon as you come out of the interview (preferably as soon as you leave the building!) - save their number in your phone!
Give frank and honest feedback both positive and negative– this is for your benefit
What did you think of your interviewer?
What is your impression of the company?
Were all your questions answered?
What do you personally think are your chances of going through to next stage?
Are you excited by the role?
Do you have any concerns?

Your consultant will gain as much feedback as possible from the client and come back to you, hopefully with a second stage interview to arrange.

Hopefully this guide will help you through the interviews we arrange for you with charm, professionalism and end up in a favourable offer and start date. Why not head over to our vacancy page and apply for a role now!!