Going for job interviews

Going for job interviews can be really stressful, no matter how confident you are. 

The best way to get those pre-interview nerves in control, other than some deep breathing, is to do as much preparation as you can in advance.

We've listed some interview hints and tips to help you plan ahead.

Before the interview             

• Let the employer know you plan to attend. Most employers expect you to confirm that you will be turning up.
• Find out as much as you can about the company before the interview.  Try googling them - most companies have a website. If the company doesn’t have a website, take a look at 'Applying for jobs: Where to look for work' for other ideas on where to look.

• Look over the job advertisement, job description or any other information the employer has sent you. From this you can build up a picture of the kind of person the employer is looking for. How well do you match up with the picture?  

• Think about the types of questions the interviewer is likely to ask. Typical questions will ask about you, your skills, your reasons for applying, what you know about the company, your strengths and weaknesses. 

• Towards the end of your interview you will usually get the chance to ask questions. Try to think of two or three questions to ask. You could ask about training or chances for progression in the company. You might also ask when they will you let you know their decision.

• Don’t ask about pay or holidays unless the advert states that these are open to negotiation. 

• Find out exactly where to go for the interview and plan out how you will get there. First impressions count. Plan what to wear and put out all the clothes you need the night before. Clothes do not need to be new, but they should be clean, ironed and smart. 

• Also look out anything you might need to take with you to the interview, such as your exam results or your CV. If you’ll need loose change for bus fares get it now.

• Check that you have everything you need to take with you. Leave plenty of time to get to the interview. Aim to arrive a little bit early. This should help you to stay calm.

When you arrive

• Give your name to the receptionist. Tell them you have come for an interview, the name of the person you have to see, and your interview time.
  
• If you have to wait, try to relax. This is where the slow deep breathing comes in, read your CV or application form again or just think about the questions they might ask and what your answers would be.

When you are called in for interview

• Smile at the interviewer, say hello, shake their hand - those first few seconds really matter.   
• Don’t sit down until you are asked.
• Don’t fidget, slouch or bite your nails.
• Don’t smoke or chew gum.
• Don’t leave your mobile phone on!
• Speak clearly.
• Make eye-contact, don’t stare at your shoes or look around the room.
• Be polite, friendly and show that you are interested.
• Be alert, focus on what you are being asked.
• If you don’t understand a question, or you didn’t hear it properly, ask the interviewer to say it again.
• Don’t give one-word “Yes” or “No” answers.
• If your throat goes completely dry ask for a drink of water.