Interviews – Make a great impression

Attending an interview can be a nerve wracking experience, so you need to be well prepared to have the best chance of landing the job you want.

When an interviewer asks questions about yourself and your career, you need to answer positively and concisely. Qualifications and experience alone doesn’t guarantee you’ll get the job. You need to communicate your skills confidently, give out the right signals with your body language, emphasising the strengths you can bring to the business whilst letting the best side of your personality shine through.

Invaluable Interview tips:

• Grooming – dress smartly, limit jewellery and don’t wear overpowering body spray
• Etiquette – be on time, don’t chew gum, show good manners and be polite
• Communication - listen to what is being said and be responsive, showing interest
• Body language – firm handshake, sit upright and keep eye contact
• Know your CV – remember your employment dates, titles and duties
• The Company – always read up about the organisation, asking more questions about them
• Answering questions – don’t interrupt the recruiter, avoid giving yes or no answers and if you are not sure say so
• Detail - a little is a good thing, too much is boring – always ask if they want you to elaborate

You may have done a great interview and still you didn’t get the job. It’s not personal and there are a few reasons why this could be…

• An internal candidate came forward and this will always take priority over new applicants
• You didn’t seem like you wanted the job
• Someone else had more relevant experience

Pick yourself up, think constructively, remain positive and apply for more jobs.

Good luck!