Getting an interview is a great achievement when jobhunting.  For some people it can be a nerve-wracking experience so here are some pointers on how to be as prepared as possible before walking into an interview.

Preparation

Before going for a job interview it is always a good idea to do a little research.  It's good to know:

• What the company does exactly - their services and/or products
• A little bit about the history of the company
• If possible, what role your would play in the company if you got the job

In good time, decide what you are going to wear to your interview.  Make sure that your outfit is clean, neat and smart looking, and try to feel comfortable in what your wearing because this will help you feel more relaxed.

It is also a good idea to make sure you know exactly where the interview is taking place and how long it will take you to get there so you won't be late on the day.

The Interview

At an interview it's really important to make a good first impression, here are some ways to do this:

• Be polite to all staff members that you meet - you may be working with them soon so why not start building up your working relationships now?
• Smile at the interviewer(s); this will make you all feel more comfortable with each other.
• Try and show that you are keen and eager to get the job.
• Answer questions clearly.  If you are nervous take a moment before answering each question to gather your thoughts. 
• Be positive.  They obviously like something about you so far because you got the interview. 
• Draw attention to your good points and if they ask about any weaknesses be honest with them, and let them know that this is something you are eager to work on and improve.
• Be respectful, not argumentative.  If they are asking you tricky questions it's not because they want to trip you up & make you look silly, this is just a way of trying to get to know you and how well you're able to cope in difficult situations.
• At the end of the interview say 'Thank you'.  You can shake hands too if you feel that it is the right thing to do.

Likely Questions

These are some sample questions that can help you prepare for an interview.  Think about how you could best answer them in an interview.  Try to always keep in mind the qualities the interviewer is looking for in their new employee.

• Why have you applied for this job?
• Why do you think you would be good at this job?
• What are your strengths?
• What skills do you think are needed for this job?
• What can you contribute to this organisation?
• Have you any weaknesses? If so, what are they?
• How would you describe yourself?

It is also likely that your interviewer will ask you if you have any questions for them.  Here are some good questions to ask:

• What are the opportunities for training?
• Would I get the opportunity to gain qualifications?
• What are the hours of work?
• When is the likely starting date for this job?
• When will I be told if I've got the job, or not?