On the day

Do:

• Give yourself plenty of time - don't put yourself under extra pressure by having to rush. Late arrival for an interview is never excusable.
• Take an up-to-date copy of your CV that is clean and crisp, together with a notebook and pen.
• When you meet the interviewer look directly at the person, smile, and give a firm handshake - this shows confidence.
• Wait until you are offered a chair before sitting and always sit up straight.
• Be positive. Watch your body language - e.g. don't cross your arms (it gives the impression of putting up a barrier between you and the interviewer).
• Follow the interviewer’s leads, but try to get the interviewer to discuss the position and duties early on, so that you can apply your background and skills to the position.
• Make sure that your good points come across to the interviewer in a sincere manner. You are the only one who can sell yourself in an interview.
• Always conduct yourself as if you are determined to get the job. It is better to be in a position where you can choose from a number of jobs rather than only one or two.
• Reply to any questions - clearly and concisely.
• Make a note of points to return to.

Don't:

• Make negative or derogatory comments about your previous / current employer. It is unprofessional and doesn’t portray any loyalty on your behalf.
• Ask about salary or annual leave allowance at the initial interview, unless the client brings it up. If the interviewer does mention salaries etc., be prepared to ask for the salary that you want.
• Respond to questions with one word answers, such as “yes” or “no”. Expand wherever possible.
• Lie. Answer questions honestly and as to-the-point as possible.
• Interrupt the interviewer. It is ok to take time to think about your response to a question.
• Fidget or let your mind wander.

AT THE END OF THE INTERVIEW

• If you’re interested in the position, ask for it! Or at least ask for a second interview if the situation demands. If you are offered the position and would like time to think about it, be polite in asking for that time and ensure that you give the interviewer a date by which you will have made your decision.
• Don’t be too discouraged if no definite offer is made. It may be that the employer has more people to interview.
• If you get the impression that the interview is not going well, try not to let your discouragement show. It may be that the interviewer is trying to give this impression to test your reaction.
• Thank the interviewer for seeing you, shake their hand firmly and confirm that you want the job.
• And last, but definitely not least, call your consultant and let them know how it went. They will be keen to hear your feedback before talking to the client.

TOP TEN THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR:

• Poor personal appearance.
• Overbearing-aggressive-conceited approach, know-it-all.
• Lack of interest and enthusiasm.
• Over-emphasis on “what can you do for me”.
• Failure to make eye contact with the interviewer.
• Lack of preparation for the interview – no knowledge of organisation.
• Limp handshake.
• Lack of confidence and inability to express ideas clearly.
• Making excuses for unfavourable details in employment history.
• Derogatory comments about current / previous employer.

Remember

You are a worthwhile person with marketable skills and abilities or you wouldn't have been selected for the interview in the first place.

Every interview is a learning experience and each one teaches you a little bit more about what to say and do and what to avoid. If you are unsuccessful then don't be too dismayed - there is always next time and the better your interview technique the more likely it is that you will succeed. Always seek feedback on ways you can improve your interview techniques.