Your Career. Our Priority.
Here at EMA Training, we know just how daunting it can be to go to an Employer interview. Our Recruitment Team have put together their top tips to support you in feeling more confident when attending interviews.
The Recruitment Team regularly support candidates in preparing for job interviews, through one-to-one support, group employability sessions, and more. The team
EMA’s Recruitment Team, Abby and Hannah.
have helped countless apprentices secure the positions they are now in and love.
Always do your research on the employer, this is a really important step. Look on the employer’s website and find out what they do, the product or service they deliver and the culture of the company. If you have questions about the workplace environment, culture, personality or values, be sure to ask during the inter
view. Remember that the interview is just as much about you finding the right fit for you. Follow the employer on social media, it will help you to understand the culture, project, products and services better. Try and find a recent achievement, have the business won an award, done something ‘above and beyond’. Familiarise yourself with the job description, this will give you a full understanding of what the role entails, and you’ll be able to articulate how your skills and experiences would make you effective in the role.
Find out where the employer is based. Is it near where you live? Can you travel by public transport? If you drive, is there parking? How long does the journey take?
If your interview is taking place virtually, here are some tips-
Test Your Technology. The minute you agree to a virtual interview, test your technology to ensure you’re set up for success. Check your internet connectivity, and confirm your camera and microphone are working.
Set the Scene and Minimize Distractions. While testing your technology, determine where to take the interview. Find a room with optimal lighting, preferably near a window, or a blank wall to guarantee you’re the focal point of the conversation. Whether you sit on your living room couch or in your home office, tidy up your surroundings.
Why do you want to secure your apprenticeship there? What is it about the company that you like? Why do you think you’re right for the role? What skills do you have that you believe will be beneficial to the employer? Make sure you match your skills and personal qualities to what the employer is looking for. It’s always best to build a rapport with the employer, elaborate on your answers, engage in conversation and be personable.
At the end of the interview you may be asked if you have any questions. It’s always a good idea to have a few questions prepared! You may want to ask why they enjoy working here, what qualities do their most successful employees have, what are they looking for in a candidate, what are the next steps in the process? Ask them what opportunities are available for your personal progression within the business, are you replacing someone that has progressed within the business? Could you have the same opportunities if you show your capable? Do they have a busy period that you would be expected to avoid holidays? Why is it a ‘busy period’? What sort of training is involved? What is the office culture/social side like?
Always make sure that you are dressed smart, suited, and booted is best. Even for a virtual interview! After all, first impressions are really important.
If you’re interested in an apprenticeship, hiring apprentice, or finding out more about apprenticeships in general, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Email [email protected]
Call 01332 371666
