interview techniques - questions and skills

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Having good interview techniques is crucial, as selling yourself to complete strangers can be a daunting experience but interviews are a fact of life. Follow our simple steps to interview success and sweaty palms will be a thing of the past ... who knows, you might even enjoy the experience!

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Interview Techniques

Be prepared! Find out as much as you can about the company beforehand. Take a look at the corporate website, if there is one, or get hold of a company brochure. Demonstrating knowledge of the basic company facts (number of employees, how long the company's been in business, products/services it provides) will impress.It may seem silly, but role-playing is extremely helpful in the lead up to interview.

Get your best mate to be the interviewer and pretend it's the real thing. Questions they might ask include:

Why are you interested in working for our company?
What can you offer us?* What are your strengths/weaknesses?
What experience do you have in this field?
Do you like to work alone or as part of a team?
Where do you see yourself in three years time?

Take this seriously - it may be embarrassing at first, but it'll be worth it.They are likely to ask whether you have any questions so be prepared with a few. Ask something intelligent like: "Are there many opportunities for training?" rather than: "Where's the nearest pub?"

Whatever you do, don't just say "no" - show an interest!

So, the big day arrives. Make sure you've found out in advance exactly where you're going and how long it will take to get there. Aim to arrive 15 minutes early to give you a chance to freshen up and compose yourself. Take copies of your CV and relevant information with you even if you don't need them - it'll look good.

Appearance is crucial - some surveys suggest that potential employers will make their minds up about you in the first 30 seconds of meeting, so dress the part. If the job is for a financial institution in the city then a suit is a must. For a job as a designer or something media-related, smart casual is fine. If in doubt, suits are rarely a mistake.

Body language is also important. Standing up straight, smiling, looking people straight in the eye and a firm handshake will go a long way towards creating the right impression.Take your time in the interview. Think about what you've been asked and answer clearly, concisely and positively. Don't get flustered if you can't answer a question - remain calm and, if necessary, ask them to clarify what you're being asked.

Think positive, you've got this far so you must be qualified for the position - you're just as good as anyone else, so show it.And whatever you do don't be late or scruffy; don't waffle; don't be opinionated or cocky; don't be put off by difficult questions; don't lie, exaggerate or complain about previous employers. These are all big interview no-nos and are likely to get you a "don't call us, we'll call you" response.

Interviews can be fun, so enjoy the attention and be confident.