An interview is a discourse between you and your prospective employer to find whether you can execute the post. Yet, there are definite principles and conventions to comply with in interviews. Here’s a checklist of the principal do’s and don’ts.

Things to do:

• dress smart, look sparkly and observant, and speak intelligibly and confidently. do not forget that merely 7% of the interviewer\’s views of you is formed through what you say – the rest is judged by how you look, act and sound
• turn off your phone! Treat the interviewers with respect and give them your undivided attention
• prepare replies for the principal questions – e.g., why do you want this placement, what are your strengths and weaknesses, what are the principal jobs in this post
• ascertain what kind of interview it will be so you can organise yourself
• have your outfit ready the night before
• make about three or four points for each response
• take your time when replying to the queries. Ensure you comprehend the question and take your time if you want to think
• sell yourself. No-one else is going to! Be confident about yourself and your experiences
• ascertain where the location is at least the day before, directions to get there and how long it takes

What not to do:
1. don’t be late!
2. do not swear or use slang words
3. don’t slouch in your seat or do anything else that makes you look bored
4. do not smoke
5. don’t lie! The interview panel may see through you. Even if you get the post, your boss can dismiss you if they find
6. don’t let your nerves show too much. A few nerves are normal but intense nerves will adversely affect your performance. Use breathing techniques and try to reflect on the fact that it’s not a life and death position – there are plenty of jobs out there!
7. do not be bigheaded and assume you’ve got the placement. Nothing turns off employers more than someone who is irreverent and over-confident
8. do not discuss contentious themes such as religion, party politics and gender relations
9. do not read from your notes or your Curriculum Vitae. You should be familiar enough with your own history to be able to speak about it unprompted
10. do not criticize past employers or colleagues. Interviewers may mark you down as a troublemaker and a gossip
11. do not argue with the interviewer, no matter what. Aim to keep things positive!

These principles apply for most jobs. But, employers in some industries can use more relaxed and friendly interviewing techniques. In some creative fields (design and media for example) it may be expected that you turn up for the interview in casual clothes, as that is the dress code in the office. If you’re in any doubt, do some research on typical interview technique in your line of work.

Above all, preparation is the key to performing well in interviews. Research the placement and organization, and prepare evidence and examples of your skills and competencies.

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