The Job Interview - tips to take you to the top!

Before the Interview:
Read, read and read some more: Before your interview find out everything you can about the company (visit their website or read their annual report, which can be obtained by telephoning them).

Re-read your application, thinking through any issues that may arise and the questions they might ask you. If there's an obvious gap in experience, make sure you explain why and how you can resolve this.

Be Prepared:
You are less likely to be nervous in an interview situation if you are well prepared. You should be confident in your abilities and be able to convince the interviewer that you are technically qualified to do the job.


Dress Sense:
You should dress smartly for the interview - in a suit - and arrive five or ten minutes before your allocated time. Women should avoid wearing short skirts. Ensure you are clean and tidy - and that your clothes are nicely pressed!


The interview:
When you are being interviewed it is very important that you give out the right signals. You should always look attentive - sit upright in your chair. Never lie to anyone in an interview, your body language and tone of voice will usually give you away.

• Be polite and friendly and think about questions before you answer them. Give examples of your experience, including projects and interesting assignments. Mention challenges and how you overcame them.
• Prepare questions to ask at the interview. Questioning the interviewer will demonstrate an active and enquiring mind which is a pre-requisite for most jobs. At the first interview it's better not to ask questions about salaries or holidays.
• Don't interrupt.
• Don't sit down until you are asked.
• Avoid criticism of your current employer.
• Be positive - use words like enjoy and enthusiastic!
• Thank the interviewers and shake their hands (firmly)