Job Interview Tips

Here are a few more tips for being your best during a job interview.

Job Interview Do’s

Make use of these handy tips to make the most of your interview:

  • Dress smartly,  look bright and attentive,  and speak clearly and confidently. First impressions really do count - studies show that employers make a decision about whether to hire you within the first seven minutes on average
  • Find out where the venue is beforehand,  how to get there and how long it takes
  • Get your outfit ready the night before
  • Find out what kind of interview it will be so you can prepare
  • Examine the person specification and your CV/application form,  and think about what type of questions they will ask you
  • Prepare answers for the main questions - for example,  why do you want the job,  what are your strengths and weaknesses,  what are the main tasks in this job?
  • Make about three or four points in each answer
  • Take your time when answering the questions: make sure you understand the question and take your time if you need to think
  • Sell yourself: no one else is going to! Be positive about yourself and your experiences
  • Prepare some questions to ask at the end of the interview - use it as an opportunity to find out more about the role and the company.
  • When discussing salary,  know your market worth and start by quoting a little higher than this
  • Get feedback on your performance,  whether you were successful or not
  • Turn off your mobile phone: treat the interviewers with respect and give them your undivided attention
  • Keep your answers focused on what you can do for the employer,  not what they can do for you

Job Interview Don’ts

  • Answer questions with a simple 'yes' or 'no'.  Use the CAR technique (Context,  Action,  Result) wherever possible. Share things about yourself relating to the position.
  • Lie. Always answer questions truthfully,  frankly and as concisely as possible.
  • Ever make derogatory remarks about your present or former employers,  colleagues or companies.
  • 'Over-answer' questions. The interviewer may steer the conversation into politics or economics. It is best to answer the questions honestly,  saying no more than is necessary.
  • Let your discouragement show. If you get the impression the interview is not going well and you have already been rejected,  don't show discouragement or alarm. Occasionally an interviewer who is genuinely interested in you may seem to discourage you in order to test your reaction
  • Ask about salary,  bonuses or holidays at the first interview - unless you are positive the employer is interested in hiring you and raises the issue first. However,  know your market value and be prepared to specify your required salary or range.