You never get a second chance to make a great first impression during your job interview, so having a well-prepared plan is vitally important to increase your chances of landing that dream job.
Interview preparation is the key to success and a well-polished presentation can give you an edge over others whose credentials might just be better than yours.
Job interview dos
- Dress to impress. Make sure your clothes are clean, ironed and presentable.
- Make eye contact, and begin with a strong handshake. This will signal your confidence when you meet your interviewer for the first time.
- Sit still, with your feet firmly on the ground. This will help you maintain your posture and avoid fidgeting.
- Remember your resume details. In particular the experience most relevant to the role you're interviewing for.
- Make a note of your questions. Bring a note-pad if you feel you might forget important points.
- Ask questions. It's just as important for the interviewer to sell the benefits of working at their business, as it is for you to impress your next potential employer. Make sure you find out by asking questions to the interviewer.
Job interview don'ts
- Turn up late to the interview. If for some reason on the day it's unavoidable, call ahead to let your interviewer know your expected time of arrival.
- Dress sloppily or inappropriately. Not sure what to wear? Read our guidelines.
- Smoke before your interview. Whilst a quick cigarette might seem like a good idea to calm your nerves, the smell will be noticeable and unpleasant for your interviewer.
- Volunteer your weaknesses. Whilst honesty is always the best policy, there is no need to volunteer your shortfalls unless asked directly.
- Criticise your current or previous employer. Doing so could give your interviewer the impression you're difficult to work with.