C-O-S - Candidate Information

Before the interview:

	When attending interviews arranged for you by COS, your Consultant will provide you with an Interview Pack with all the details you need to do your best. Read this thoroughly!
	Research the company as much as possible yourself - visit their Website; ask friends; obtain a company brochure; check for newspaper articles; find out who their competitors are.
	Dress smartly - always wear a business suit; check nail varnish; not too much make-up or jewellery; polished shoes; tidy hair.
	Plan your route; where you will park and have change ready for parking, before the day.
	Allow sufficient time to get there and aim to arrive 5 minutes early.
	Attend the Pre-brief offered by your Consultant - this is very important as it will prepare you with the interview format - number of interviews, type of questions, who will conduct the interviews, what to expect and how to progress your application to the next stage.

At the interview:

	Make sure you let the employer knows how they will benefit by employing you. It is important to use the interview to sell yourself - tell them about any relevant skills and experience and how you will make a contribution to their company.
	Allow the interviewer to talk - don't monopolise the meeting.
	Don't give negative information if you are not asked for it and never criticise previous employers.
	Show that you have researched the company.
	When asked if you have any questions, ask about their expectations of a successful person in the role, how performance standards are measured or ask them to describe the team. Never ask about salary package or holidays at a first interview.
	Express your interest in the opportunity with enthusiasm. No employer will be interested in making an offer to someone who doesn't appear enthusiastic at interview stage!