Interview intelligence

Prior to an interview, it is important to do your homework on the organisation in general. It is also worth while taking the time to find out how Health and Safety is profiled on their website, more detailed information on their current Health and Safety policy and if they have won any recent awards in Health and Safety too. If you know who you are meeting, try conducting some background research on the internet to see if they have been recently been involved with any articles for relevant publications. Make sure that you also read up on any changes in legislation over the past twelve months to ensure that you can demonstrate a thorough knowledge of your field.

Before you walk into an interview, make sure that you have a clear idea of what your three biggest achievements have been at work over the past three years. Be prepared to discuss your key strengths in detail and with examples. An interview is a chance to really sell yourself to a potential employer and you need to be able to clearly demonstrate why you would be the best candidate for the job.

Be Punctual

In an ideal world, interviews are arranged with plenty of time to spare. However, it is often the case that they need to be fitted in around other commitments and your current job. This does not give you an excuse to be late - make sure that you give yourself enough time to reach the arranged meeting point with a good ten minutes to spare. Punctuality shows good time management and a positive approach to the role.

One common mistake candidates make is to talk too much in an interview. Too much information, particularly personal information, should not be discussed during the interview. It is important to listen to the question asked and make your answer as accurate and too the point as possible.

React to your interviewer

During an interview, your interviewer will subconsciously give you a lot of information on how to behave which you should use as a guide for the rest of the interview. Observe their style and pace, and try to match it. Listen to what they are saying, and let them know you have been paying attention by making insightful comments.

Ask questions

Although it may seem like you are only there to answer their questions, make sure you ask plenty of questions in return. Asking your interviewer questions will help to take some of the pressure off and give you an opportunity to guide the interview towards your best points. After all, you don't want your interview to be a like a police interrogation and it should also be a chance for you to find out if you are suited to the company and the position.

Rehearse

Bear in mind that the competency based interview (CBI) is becoming more commonplace and you may need to alter your interview technique in order to be successful. Unlike the traditional interview that focuses on skills, knowledge and education, this technique highlights personality traits, examines competencies and assesses how well they might fit with a company's culture. If this technique is used, you will be asked to relate your answers to real life experience. Rehearse your answers prior to the interview.

Second time round

At the 2^nd interview stage, interviewers will want to know if you really know your stuff, so make sure you can speak at length about any relevant experience and do your research on their company. If your interview ends without an offer, try to close the deal by asking, "What's the next step in the process?" and "When can I expect a response?"

DonÕt be disheartened if you aren't offered the first job. Experienced health & safety candidates are in a strong position and employers are constantly looking for good, loyal staff – there are plenty of opportunities out there.