How to succeed in your interview

An interview can be an intimidating prospect, but with some preparation and planning, it needn’t be an overwhelming challenge. Interviews can range from conversations lasting a few minutes to several formal meetings, sometimes with more than one interviewer. In any case, the interview is not to be feared but instead regarded as an opportunity to demonstrate your strengths, aptitudes, and enthusiasm.

Do your research

Before the interview, it is a good idea to do your homework and gather information on the company. Look up the prospective company online, study the job spec and ask your recruiter for any inside bits of information that may help.

Dress for success

At an interview, it is extremely important to look, act and dress professionally as you won’t have a second chance.

Clean shoes, clean fingernails, and clean, well-groomed hair are important.

Research has shown that an interviewer forms their impression within the first eight seconds of meeting a candidate. The remainder of the interview is either spent confirming this opinion or turning it around.

Practice interviewing

• Enlist friends or colleagues to ask you sample questions

• Practice making eye contact

• Video record your practice sessions - pay attention to body language and verbal presentation

• Eliminate verbal fillers, like “uh,” and “um.” Practice using positive body language to signal confidence

• Handle logistics early - have your clothes, CV, and directions to the interview site ready ahead of time.

Anticipate likely questions

To get to the motivations and working style of a potential employee, employers often turn to behavioral interviewing, an interviewing style that consists of a series of probing, incisive questions. This may sound a little intimidating; however, with a little preparation, you can feel confident before the interview.

During the interview

A firm handshake with a positive smile will do wonders when you first meet your interviewer. Some small chit-chat from the reception area to the interview room will also help. These are the vital seconds in making your first impression.