TEN TOP INTERVIEW CHEATS

[Courtesy of Rehearse It]

1 MASTER THE HANDSHAKE

Make sure you don’t give a soft, flimsy handshake – whatever your gender, make sure you give a good firm grip and look the person in the eye. Remember – it is not about asserting dominance, but sincerity. Don’t pump the arm – you’re not Donald Trump.

2 CONFIRMATION BIAS

Research shows that an interviewer’s questions are easier if you create a good impression immediately. Once you have set up an unconscious “confirmation bias” within the mind of the evaluator – they already like you, and want you to do well – you can nudge the ultimate decision in your favour.

3 SUMMARISE YOUR EXPERIENCE

On average, hirers spend no more than six seconds reviewing your CV before choosing candidates to interview. They know almost nothing about you when you walk in, so gently ask if they would like you to summarise your experience.

4 HOLD YOUR BAG TO THE SIDE

Looping your bag over your shoulder or forearm looks too informal, while holding it in front of you suggests you are nervous or scared. Always hold it to the side, whether you are a man or a woman.

5 DRESS WITH RESPECT

Select an appropriate outfit for the company – if it’s a tech firm, wearing a three-piece suit would probably be a big no-no. Equally, turning up to an investment bank in jeans and a blazer will not give the right impression. Wear something a little more pressed and polished than the typical employee.

6 DON’T HESITATE TO SHINE

Interviewers make their initial judgement about you in half a second, and then decide whether or not to give you the job in less than 15 minutes. Agree with the interviewer

during initial small talk to demonstrate you share the same world view, and make sure you are engaged and ready to deliver during early questions.

7 MIRROR BODY LANGUAGE

As soon as you meet your interviewer, subtly copy the way they stand or sit, crossing your legs or resting your arm on the back of the chair if they do. In a “natural” setting with friends, most people do this without thinking, but in an interview you can behave more awkwardly. Don’t follow behind them down the corridor – walk next to them.

8 USE YOUR HANDS AND THUMBS

Always keep your hands in view and rest them on the table. Use them to add emphasis when you talk and make sure your interviewer can see you thumbs, which shows you are at ease.

9 ASK QUESTIONS

Prepare three questions to ask at the end based on your research of the company, but be careful not to appear critical or doubtful. Never ask about benefits or salary – wait until you are offered the job.

10 END WELL

Make it seem like you really enjoyed the conversation and don’t want the interview to end. Avoid looking like you want to get out as soon as possible. Maintain eye contact, smile and talk as you gather your belongings.