Candidates - Interview Tips

Before the interview

• Research the organisation - look at its website and read its latest annual report.
• Research the sector - take a look at industry association websites and magazines to get a feel for the latest developments.
• Prepare answers to the standard questions that form the basis of most interviews.
• Be ready with a few questions for the interviewer. This shows you're keen and on the ball.
• Check the format of the interview and find out who will be interviewing you - it could throw you if you unexpectedly have to face an interview panel of six people.
• Make sure you dress appropriately.
• Re-read your CV and application letter and take additional copies.
• Plan your journey and check for any potential delays.

At the interview 'You never get a Second Chance to Make a First Impression':

• Get to your interview at least five minutes early. If you are going to be unavoidably delayed, make sure you let your interviewer know.
• Always switch off your mobile phone before you enter the recruiter's building.

Some interviewers try to provoke a reaction, often drawing candidates into an argument, or simply turning them into the proverbial rabbit in the headlights. Expect interviewers to throw a few trick questions your way. Some common ones include:

• What are your weaknesses?
• What would your colleagues say are your weaknesses?
• Describe a situation when your work was criticised.

Remember, success here depends more on not getting flustered and thinking on your feet than having the right answer. Above all, be honest - and give reasons for your past behaviour or responses. Companies want to hire humans, not robots.

The style of interviews varies dramatically, but here are a few key points to remember:

• Be friendly and courteous to everyone you meet from the receptionist onwards - you never know who might have a say in your appointment.
• Use positive body language.
• When answering questions, relate parts of the job description to relevant experience on your CV.
• Make the most of your research and quote it where appropriate.
• If you face a panel interview, make sure you talk to everyone rather than directing your answers at one person.
• Find out as much as you can about the job. For example, who would the employee report to; why is the situation vacant; and what are the promotion prospects?
• Never mention salary unless prompted to do so - and even then try not to agree to specific numbers without being given time to think.
• Always let the interviewer finish speaking before giving your response.
• When the interview is over, remember to ask when you can expect to hear back and what the next stage will entail.