Interview Tips

1. Arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the interview time, having RESEARCHED the company.  Dress smartly - take particular care to ensure that your shoes are clean. Don't forget first impressions last and people often remember a person by what they were wearing.

2. Greet the interviewer with a smile and a firm handshake. Sit down when invited with an upright but relaxed posture. Do not slouch. Look the interviewer in the eye. Do not stare but do not gaze around the room, out of the window or down at your lap. Be positive even if you conclude that the position is not for you. You won't necessarily know what else the company are or may be recruiting for.

3. Speak clearly and concisely. Do not ramble. Silence is often used to tempt you to say more than you want to on a given subject. Do not be tempted to do so.

4. In an interview panel situation ensure that you are speaking to the whole group. Do not direct your answers to the person who you believe to be the key decision maker of the group. He or she may not be and often is not.    

5. If a question throws you, pause before answering and make a common sense, honest reply. Create conversation as and when appropriate. Make your questions pertinent to the interview, the company and their industry sector. Leave the interviewer with a positive affirmation of your interest.

6. Ask the interviewer

 What would my core responsibilities be? 
 What training will I will be given?
What are the opportunities to progress within the company?

Conclusion

Ask how this process will continue.
Gently enquire when you will hear back from them – do not be too pushy
Ensure the company holds all your current contact details
Say a personal good bye to each person you talked to
Acknowledge the receptionists as you leave