Interviews

Before the interview
• Find out about the organisations e.g. look at their website.
• Check how to get there and how long you need to allow for travel.
• Think about questions.

Things to find out
• What will the job involve?
• What does the organisation do? e.g. do they produce things or provide a service?
• What other jobs are done at this company?
• Who are their customers?
• Who are their competitors?
• What's their annual turnover/budget?
You can probably find this information on the company's website.

At the interview
• Look clean and tidy; your outfit should be right for that organisation.
• Be on time; if you do get delayed, phone and tell them.
• Shake hands when you go in and be polite at all times.
• Listen carefully to the questions and avoid 'yes' or 'no' answers.
• If you mind goes blank, ask for a couple of minutes to think.
• Don't chew or smoke.
• If you have a mobile, switch it off.

Top interview complaints
'They were late.'
'They didn't seem bothered.'
'They didn't know anything about what we do.'
'Their mobile phone kept going off.'

Typical interview questions
'What can you tell me about yourself?'
'Why do you want to work here?'
'What do you know about this job/company?'
'What have you got to offer this company?'
'What experience have you had?'
'What achievements are you proud of?'
'What do you see yourself doing in 5 years time'

Telephone interview
Employers often ask you to ring to arrange an interview. Treat this as part of the interview process. Even if you only have a short conversation you will be making some kind of impression.

If you're not successful, ask for feedback to help you next time.