1# Get a good sleep the night before (9 hours).
2# Eat a good breakfast before you go.
3# Be punctual – early!
4# Dress appropriately.
5# Take care of your personal hygiene and grooming.
6# Don’t smoke, chew gum or eat during the interview.
7# Switch your mobile phone off, not silent.
8# Be polite, courteous and friendly to all support staff.
9# When meeting the interviewer or interview panel:
- Smile
- Extend a firm handshake
- Share eye contact with everyone
- Only sit when asked to do so
10# Take a quiet breath and little pause to gain valuable thinking time so you don’t rush your answers.
11# Remember the importance of body language throughout the interview (both yours and the interviewers’).
12# Don’t fidget.
13# Be pleasant, friendly, warm and polite.
14# Don’t ever volunteer negative information to the interviewer no matter how friendly or disarming the conversation becomes.
15# Express your genuine interest in the position.
Bonus Tips
Don’t be afraid to ask clarifying questions if you are not 100% sure.
Some people suggest that you should have three or four questions ready to ask when you go to an interview.
If they have a website, perhaps you could ask a question, or complement them on something you liked as this shows you have an interest in the organisation.
It’s often worthwhile to send an email or write a letter thanking the interviewer for the opportunity to be interviewed.
Perhaps if the choice is close between you and another candidate this letter could swing the decision in your favour – remember to be genuine!
