Advice for job interviews

It is really important to organise and prepare yourself before attending an interview in order to give yourself the best possible chance of being offered the job.

Before the interview

Confirm that you will be attending
Double check the time and date and make reliable travel arrangements
Research the company – for example: What type of business are they? How long have they been established? What are their key achievements? Who are their customers?
Plan your dress and appearance
Rehearse questions and answers
Think positive – remember that you will have been offered an interview because the employer feels there is a strong chance that you may be suitable for the job

At the interview

Remember that employers will be able to observe you as soon as you are within sight of the company premises
Greet everyone with a smile, and shake hands confidently
Engage and maintain good eye contact
Wait to be invited to sit down
Adopt a relaxed but formal posture
Answer questions confidently, clearly and honestly
Give relevant examples of your experience
Ask for clarification if you don’t understand a question
Be enthusiastic about the job and the company
Maintain a professional image throughout

Do not

Arrive late
Have a cigarette before you enter the building
Ask about pay, holidays and perks - these can be discussed later if you are offered the job
Apologise for your age, health, lack of experience etc
Interrupt the interviewer
Criticise your last employer
Be over familiar or over confident
Joke or swear

If you have not heard from the employer after a week, telephone and ask if they are able to provide feedback on the interview. Use any feedback constructively, recognise what went well and work on any areas for development that the employer highlights.