1. Thorough Research…
Showing enthusiasm is vital when approaching a job interview, and one way to show this is by conducting research on the employer and the job opportunity. The more you find out regarding the employer, hiring staff and the job opportunity, the more prepared you will be answering interview questions, but also thinking of questions to ask.
2. Research common questions and plan responses…
Before the interview, attempt to find out in what format the interview will be held, whether that be single or group interview. This can help you decipher what questions may be asked. Once you have covered what type of questions could be asked you can then begin to plan responses. This furthers your enthusiasm and lets the employer know how eager you are.
3. Dress for Success…
First impressions are important, make sure you plan out what you will wear and that it fits the business and its culture. You want to look professional, remember that being overdressed is always better than being underdressed and ensure that all your clothes are cleaned, pressed and all clothing fits! Clean, well groomed.
4. Be Punctual...
Don’t be late! Try to arrive at your interview 15 minutes before it is scheduled to begin, this once again makes you look enthusiastic to the employer but also gives you a chance to settle in and observe the dynamics of the workplace.
5. First impressions are vital…
Upon meeting your interviewer and potential colleague, make sure your first impression is a good one. Have firm handshake, smile and thank the employer for taking the time to meet with you. Avoid smoking, coffee or food at least half an hour prior the interview. You may not be able to smell it but they can.
6. Be enthusiastic, be focused…
Once the interview has begun, ensure that you are giving the interviewer(s) your full attention, maintain eye-contact and reply confidently with open and honest answers. In preparation of the interview, you should have had common questions that are asked in your head so that you can answer them, without producing long, rambling answers that may bore the interviewer(s).
7. Body language is key…
Poor body language can be seen as rude and also be a distraction for the interviewer(s). Make sure you sit straight, always look interested and try not to fidget. Maintaining eye contact whilst subtly nodding when appropriate lets the interviewer(s) know that you are interested and listening.
8. Prepare insightful questions…
This can be incorporated into your planning stage… make sure to ask insightful, relevant questions to the interviewer(s). Avoid topics such as wage/salary and work hours, this can make you seem disinterested and only care about the money or what time you get to go home. Good questions include “Would there be a possible chance for progression?” and “Will any further training be provided?”. This lets the employer know you are keen to work and improve whilst working for the company.
9. Closing the interview…
Having the most qualifications doesn’t always get you the job, the successful applicant is usually the jobseeker who shows they are most suited to the role and completes the interview confidently and enthusiastically. When the interview begins to wind down, ask about the next stage of the process and the timetable in which you may hear about the position.
10. Thanking the interviewer(s) and asking for feedback…
At the end of the interview, common courtesy would be to thank the interviewer(s) once again for taking the time to meet with you, whether that be in person, email or postal mail. Also, try and get some feedback on how you performed in the interview, this can give you experience for future interviews whilst showing your enthusiasm to the employer.
Essentially, a traineeship is a work placement, incorporating out of house training, designed to make participants “work ready”. The government funded programme was set up to get people between the ages of 16-24 in employment.
Traineeships have three core elements:
- A work experience placement with an employer.
- Work related training, provided by a specialist training organisation.
- Maths and English support (if required), also provided by the training provider.
A traineeship must last a minimum of six weeks, but can not exceed the six-month mark. The trainees are flexible and can meet the needs of the business and those of the individual. It provides support for young people in the community and gives them an opportunity to experience a working environment first hand.
Employers are not required to pay trainees for their work placement; however, some trainees may be eligible for a government funded financial support, including the 16-19 bursary fund. Employers are encouraged to supply trainees with financial support to help with costs such as travel and lunch costs.
How can a Traineeship benefit you?
Traineeships provide a perfect opportunity for young people looking for an “in” for a chosen industry, a real workplace experience which gives you a look into the working life. A six week to six-month traineeship placement will look great on a CV as you are becoming qualified whilst undertaking the job you are training for.
How can a Traineeship benefit your business?
- Traineeships and work placements can attract and recruit staff for current or future projects
- No cost for your business as traineeships and work placements are government funded
- High quality apprenticeship candidates who already have experience in your business
- Trainees are flexible and can meet the needs of your business and those of the individual
- Supports young people in your community
