How to Stand Out at Interviews

Every candidate that Pro-Tax secures an interview has the opportunity to be fully briefed on the role, the interviewer and the firm they are meeting. We have an incredibly high ratio of candidates that are interviewed that are then made offers by our clients, and this is partly down to the comprehensive briefings we give all candidates.

We issue each candidate with our 'Interview Tips Sheet' which is a comprehensive guide to ensuring they are fully prepared. The old adage is never truer: Fail to prepare then prepare to fail.

Preparation is Key

1. Have you read the job specification and the client’s website? If you are asked to give your version of what the job entails, can you give an answer?

2. Do you know your own CV inside and out?

3. Have you thought through likely questions you will get asked? Consider your strengths, why you are leaving your current firm, what you can bring to a new employer etc (All these are covered in our briefings and in the 'Interview Tips Sheet' we issue you)

4. What questions do you have for the interviewer? Avoid standard questions that all candidates ask and leave the interviewer bored having to answer them. Probing questions that engage the interviewer will win the day!

5. Have a strong close. Make sure you are able to manipulate the situation so you finish on a strong point and have the interviewer agreeing with you.

Why should the client employ you?

If the client has requested to meet with you then you are part of the way through the process already, so don't blow it now. The client wants you to satisfy some basic criteria:

1. Technical Skills: Make sure you are up to date with recent tax legislation, case law, and topical tax issues. Read the tax bulletins the Big 4 produce and review Taxation Magazine and Tax Adviser for topical issues

2. Communication Skills: The client wants you to demonstrate confidence, the ability to build relationships with clients and fellow team members. Showing you have a good sense of humour is often a good way to help break down barriers and build rapport with the interviewer.

3. Drive and Ambition: Demonstrate that you want to progress, are willing to learn and adapt to new environments.