DO

• Be punctual, arrive 5 - 10 minutes early.
• On arrival, clearly state your name and the person you are there to see. Check that you are pronouncing the interviewers name(s) properly.
• Smile and use a firm handshake, open body language (no arms crossed), eye contact and good posture throughout the interview. You will exude confidence as a result.
• Remain positive and calm.
• Be prepared. Read your notes, cover letter, CV and any information you gathered about the company as many times as you can prior to attending your interview. Your preparation will enable you to answer questions knowledgeably and with confidence and this will help relax you and will display your genuine interest in the position.
• Speak clearly and slowly.
• Be able to identify your strengths, skills and achievements, why you want the position and what you have to offer the company.
• Pause briefly and gather your thoughts prior to answering questions.
• Carry a folder with you to the interview containing a number of clean copies of your CV, your notes about your skills and achievements and paper and pen to take notes.
• Polish your shoes and prepare your outfit (ironing, dry cleaning etc). Appearances do count, so it is important to look your best.
• Carry directions, tissues, a comb or brush, breath mints, lipstick and a spare pair of pantyhose with you.
• Be prepared to answer open questions and difficult questions. Ask for clarification if you do not understand the question.
• Speak to your referees prior to interview, advise them of the position you are applying for and the skills and responsibilities required for the role. Confirm their contact details.
• Be polite to everyone including the security guard, receptionist and anyone you come across in the lift or lobby. You never know who these people are and what their influence may be in the final decision.
• Be honest.

DON'T

• Arrive too early or late.
• Avoid eye contact, slouch or fidget. Even if this is due to nervousness, an interviewer may interpret your behaviour as rude, bored or impatient.
• Be tempted to fill quiet spots in the interview.
• Use jargon, slang or bad language.
• Make negative comments about present and past employers, company practices or employees.
• Become too informal. Your personal life is just that and it is not necessary to reveal your personal circumstances to an interviewer.
• Worry if you are being interviewed after losing a job. Prepare answers to questions you are likely to be asked regarding your previous position. Think about what you learned from the experience and why you think the position didn't work out for you.
• Get discouraged or become desperate. While you may not get every job you are interviewed for, every interview you attend enables you to develop your interview skills, become more comfortable answering a range of questions and will build your confidence.