The Perfect Job Interview by Charles Foster

There is no such thing as the perfect interview however there is nothing like preparation to make sure you make the best possible impression on the day.

Look up where the interview will take place and do your homework to ensure that you arrive with a good 10-15 minutes in hand, prior to the interview. If you are early, explore the surrounding area as it best not to arrive too early, just as it is imperative to be late.

Unless you are 100% certain that it will be a casual interview ensure that you are wearing a conservative, suit and tie for men, or blouse and skirt (but not too revealing) for women. There would be nothing worse than turning up in jeans believing it was a casual interview only to be introduced to the Chairman and main decision maker who is wearing a bow tie and three piece suit. A bit implausible I agree but I hope I made the point.

Also make sure you make eye contact, speak clearly, smile (no-one wants to work with a misery!) and have a firm, assertive handshake, although not a bone crusher. Use the interviewers name so he knows that you remember it but don't be repetitive.

It is also very important to prepare a list of intelligent. Do not prepare to grill the interviewer but make sure you something about the organisation and ask questions which let the interviewer know about the organisation and have taken interest. Do not ask questions to which there are one-word answers. People like talking about themselves and their firm so let them do so and never ask about holiday allowance, sickness, maternity, paternity benefit or of course salary (unless of course they introduce the topic).

If you feel nervous about the whole interview experience it is important to remember that an interview is also a two-way selection. The organisation and the future work colleagues must impress you as much as you must impress them.

Good luck with your next interview and hope you have found this article useful.

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