How to survive an interview

Congratulations if you've got an interview. This means you look good on paper and you've cleared the first hurdle of the selection process. But even though your qualifications and experience mean you've got a foot in the door, how you come across in the interview is just as important. Here are some tips to help you survive an interview.

1. Before the Interview…be prepared!!

Before the interview ensure you know your stuff. It is essential to research the company and position you are applying for, before the interview takes place. Preparation is the key to a successful interview - the more you know, the less you'll panic.

• The Internet is an excellent research tool. Most companies have their own website containing information on the company history, while many sites have a press centre which details the latest news regarding the organisation.
• All national newspapers are available on-line, so if the company website doesn't have the information you require, search through newspaper archives for stories relating to the firm. Or the area of work the firm is in. Try to find positive stories!
• You may be able to get some information directly from the company by telephoning them. Most companies have information packs, brochures or other relevant information that will help you feel more prepared for the interview.

Think about questions you may be asked and think of some answers. There is another article, called example interview questions which lists typical questions and how you can answer them.

TIP: Ensure you know the exact location and time of interview, who you are seeing, their position within the company and how you pronounce their name.

2. The Interview… the hot seat!

Your attitude and personality play an integral part in getting a job, just as qualifications and experience do. So the overall impression you make is very important. Try not to be too nervous or attempt to project the perfect image. If you've done your preparation you will feel confident and calm. Most importantly, BE YOURSELF!

The first time your potential new employer sees you will be at the interview, so don't underestimate the importance of how you present yourself. Remember, an interviewer can make a decision about you in the first few minutes so you must come across in a professional, confident and friendly manner. When you first meet the interviewer make sure you: look smart, smell good, make good eye contact, smile; introduce yourself and give a firm handshake - you are being judged from this point onwards.

Here are some tips about how to act in an interview…

Try to radiate an air of confidence and remember to smile.

• Remember the interviewer's name.
• Your handshake should be firm, but not too forceful.
• Sit up straight and maintain good posture, do not slouch or act too relaxed.
• Maintain good eye contact throughout.
• Be a good listener. Acknowledge the interviewer's comments and if there is more than one person present, switch your glance between them when answering questions.
• Make sure you understand the question and speak clearly when answering. It is fine to ask the interviewer to repeat the question.
• Try not to fidget, fiddle with your hair or anything else that will make you look nervous.
• Avoid barriers between you and the interviewer - such as holding a brief case on your lap; folding your arms or crossing your legs.
• Positive Mental Attitude: Think positive; be positive.

These guidelines allow the interviewer to concentrate on you, and not be distracted by what you are doing. Body language conveys all sorts of messages and can used to portray you as confident and well balanced, even if that's not quite how you're feeling.

3. After the Interview… a sigh of relief!

But… before you leave the interview make sure you have questions prepared to ask the interviewer, this will show you're interest and demonstrate your knowledge of the firm or industry.

Below are some examples:

• Will there be any training opportunities within the company?
• What will be my first responsibilities on starting the job?
• What are the shift patterns?
• Is there opportunity to work overtime?
• What is the company culture?

Try to leave a lasting impression with the interviewer. Be remembered when you walk out of the door. Let them know you really want this job. Tell the interviewer what they want to hear. If they are looking for someone who lives locally and you do - tell them. If they want someone with the qualifications you have, remind them you have those skills.

Sell yourself in the final stages of the interview and you'll be remembered.

4. Other post-interview points:

• Thank the interviewers for their time. Leave quietly, calmly and smile!
• Post-Analysis: Review the questions you were asked in the interview and your responses. See if there is anything you could have said or expressed better. By the time your second interview comes round you will be prepared.

And remember… if you don't get the job this time, call the interviewer and ask them for feedback. You can then change your interview style and perform better next time.