So your job application has been successful and you’re on your way to securing the career move that meets your ambitions. The interview is now your chance to showcase your ability and be the very best you can be.   

“Be the best you can be”

What does this mean? Essentially it means doing all you can to be ready to represent yourself in the best possible light.

The most important thing is to be prepared – put some time in to research the company. You don’t have to answer every question perfectly, but you should be able to demonstrate genuine understanding and interest in who they are and what they do. Find out about their current projects, and any other interesting information.  Make sure you drop this into the conversation – don’t let your research go to waste! You’ll get brownie points for effort.

Of course, the interviewer will also be looking for someone who is enthusiastic, articulate and can think on their feet. The interviewer will be looking to establish that you have the right qualities, skills and abilities that they are looking for.

Be yourself – most important! The client is interested in who you are, your experiences and opinions, so spend some time thinking about what you will say when you inevitably get asked ‘So, tell me about yourself’.

Sit down with your CV and make some notes about key achievements and personal experience – rehearse what you want to say to ensure you include all the important stuff.  Don’t wait for the right question for you to outline your achievements, find opportunities to volunteer the information yourself

Don’t forget to prepare yourself! Leaving everything to the last minute will cause you huge amounts of stress and will mean that your performance in the interview could really suffer. Cover off the basics way in advance – plan your journey, build in extra time, pick a killer outfit and make sure its ready to go so you’re not rushing around the day of your interview. Make sure you look and feel good.

In addition to being prepared, confidence is also key – the interviewer is not trying to trip you up – they want you to be the right person! This is a chance for you to get to know the company, it must be right for you, too!

Checklist (Summary)

• Research the company
• Rehearse how to incorporate key information into the conversation
• Have your outfit picked out and ready in advance
• Ensure you know the date, time and location of interview, and the name and position of the person interviewing you
• Check how long it will take you to get there and allow for any unexpected delays

Answering Questions and Body Language

As soon as you are ushered into the interview, there will be some small talk where there will be a chance to break the ice. These initial conversations can be very informative – be confident and upbeat, keep pleasantries nice and swift….no going over the top or over sharing.

A natural smile, firm handshake and some brief chit chat are the best way to kick things off and make a good first impression.

Body Language

You can say so much without even opening your mouth!  Most interviewers have an understanding of body language and will be taking notice, so here are some simple rules:

• Make eye contact – this is the best way to show you’re paying attention and demonstrates that you are engaged.
• Sit comfortably with both feet on the floor, leaning slightly towards your interviewer.  Make sure you don’t fold your arms or cross your legs – this creates a barrier between you.
• Don’t slouch – this will make you look too relaxed.  You could portray a ‘can’t be bothered’ attitude.
• Don’t fidget – tapping your fingers, jiggling your leg up or down, etc. It’s a sign of boredom and impatience. Keep your posture straight and focused on your interviewer, which in turn will make you seem more focused.
• Smile and be yourself!

Keeping the above in mind will ensure that the interview can concentrate fully on you and what you’re saying. Body language coveys all sort of messages – make sure you convey the right message!