To get to the point where you are invited for interview, you have successfully completed some sort of preselection process from an examination of your CV. This is often the only knowledge the prospective Employee has of you. Now it is up to you to let your suitability for the job shine though.

A few basis techniques to improve your chances of success

There is no definite way of performing at interview that guarantees success - but there are some basic techniques that, when followed, give you an increased chance of success.

Be Prepared

The better prepared you are, the more confident and relaxed you will be at your interview.

Check the location on a map, confirm parking/travel arrangements, check the interviewer’s title and name and how to pronounce it.

Take time to read your CV, and refresh yourself on relevant past jobs – these will inevitably be the topic of the day – key facts and dates.

Take a copy of your CV with you to the interview - you never know whether the interviewer will have mislaid your CV. You can help save the day.

Questions

Certain questions may seem a bit puzzling – but always remember that the interviewer’s aim is to recruit suitable staff, not to trip people up or embarrass them. They may ask searching questions to ascertain your aptitude, motivation, stability, maturity and general outlook. Be prepared for them, and answer them as well as you can.

If you have questions you need to know ask them- one or two questions at the end show your seriousness about joining the company. That said don’t make the mistake of interviewing the interviewer.

When in the interview

First impressions

It is stating the obvious but the first impression will be the most important statement you make. Dress smartly and appropriately for the company, arrive punctually and greet the interviewer by his or her surname. Shake hands firmly and wait until you are invited to sit. A friendly smile does not go amiss, and can often put the interviewer in a more relaxed state.

During the interview

Again may seem obvious but do show enthusiasm and confidence. Avoid answering questions with just a simple yes or no - they don’t give you a chance to sell yourself. Expand your answers sufficiently to reveal those things about yourself which will emphasise your suitability for the job and what you are able to offer the company - but don’t go on and on. Look for opportunities to turn a negative answer into a positive one.

Convey your belief in your ability. Never denigrate your previous or current employer. Don’t smoke, even if the interviewer offers you a cigarette. Listen to everything and be prepared to ask relevant, well thought out questions. It’s not just a time for them to assess you - you need to decide whether it’s the right step for you.

Be aware that body language plays an important role - reinforce your verbal messages with physical actions. Look the interviewer in the eye, smile, look interested - it as important to show that you are listening as it is to listen. After the interview is the time to wonder whether you want the post. Act as if you are set on getting the job. Never shut out an opportunity.

Concluding the interview

Make sure you have told the interviewer all they need to know about yourself and your capabilities. Check that there is nothing else you wish to ask. End on a positive note by expressing your interest in the post and asking what the next step will be.

AND GOOD LUCK!!