Interview Tips

In order to land that perfect role you need to develop good interview techniques. Here are some of the things that people typically forget when attending an interview and can be the barrier between you and your ideal job.


          • Arrive ten to fifteen minutes early.

          • If you feel there’s a possibility you could be late ring ahead.

          • Always turn off your mobile/ cell phone.

          • Know what your strengths and weaknesses are and be prepared to address              them in the interview.

          • Have all necessary papers (resume copies, exam certificates, copies of sales              figures & performance reports) with you.

          • Have any relevant samples of your work such as portfolios with you.

          • Have a prepared take out list of questions you want to ask the interviewer.

          • Have a pen and paper.

          • Wear solid, conservative colours.

          • Wear a neat, tailored suit or dress.

          • Go easy on jewellery.

          • Women - go light on makeup, perfume and hairspray.

          • Men - go light on cologne, and after-shave.

          • Make sure you are well dressed as supposed to under dressed and be neatly              groomed.

          • You must always speak respectfully to the interviewer and address everyone              you meet in a professional manner.

          • Wait until you are offered a chair before you sit down.

          • Maintain eye contact.

          • Avoid crossing your arms.

          • When it’s not required avoid using jargon.

          • Don’t complain about your current or former employer.

          • Don’t discuss salary; benefits holidays etc. unless the interviewer brings it up.

          • Ask what the next steps are in the process. Try to get a specific answer,              i.e.…When they will be in contact.

If you stick to these tips you should always be able to create the right impression with the interiewer.

For even more indepth advice and strategies for creating the right impression at an interview take a look at:

Job Race by personnel and HR expert David Drennan