Nail that interview
Preparation is essential for a successful interview. “The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll be,” says Nic Sephton-poultney.
During the interview, you will be judged on your strengths and weaknesses as well as characteristics such as attitude, aptitude, stability, motivation and maturity.
Follow these DOS and DON’TS to ace your next interview. DO arrive on time or a few minutes early. Being late is never excusable. DO greet the interviewer by his or her title and surname. If you are not sure of the pronunciation, ask them to repeat it. DO shake hands firmly. DON’T answer questions with a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Explain yourself whenever possible. Describe things about yourself that relate to the position. DO wait until you are offered a chair before sitting down. Sit upright and look alert and interested at all times. DO be as charismatic as possible; it’s very important that you demonstrate your interpersonal skills during the interview. DO be an excellent listener as well as an excellent talker. DON’T lie. Answer questions truthfully and as close to the point as possible.
DO look the interviewer in the eye. DO smile. DO follow the interviewer’s lead. DO get a full description of the position and the duties it entails at an early stage, so that you can convey your appropriate background and skills. DON’T make derogatory remarks about your present or former employers. DO make convey your good points in a concise, factual and sincere manner. Remember that only you can sell yourself and make the interviewer aware of the benefits that you can offer. DO conduct yourself with an attitude of being determined to get the job under discussion and never close the door on an opportunity. Being able choose from a number of offers is better than having only one. DON’T ask about salary, holidays or bonuses at the initial interview unless you are positive that the interviewer wants to hire you. You should, however, know your market value and be prepared to specify your required salary or range.