Do’s and Don’t in the Interview

Do

Be prepared (read about preparing for interview)
Be on time, if you are going to be late ring the company to let them know
First impressions count – smile, dress professionally, give a firm handshake and maintain eye contact without glaring
Sit comfortably and upright in an open posture
Develop a confident rapport
Listen carefully to the questions, ask for clarification if you are unsure
Take time to think about the question before answering, make sure you know what you are going to say before you say it
Be enthusiastic and positive (even in negative situations)
Speak clearly and talk about specific achievements and examples in a logical manner
Expect the unexpected, a recent survey states that 90% of employers ask “killer” questions - try to remain calm and controlled
Check in during the interview, if you are still in full flow after 2-3 minutes, ask the interviewer for permission to continue
Ask if you can take notes and make notes where appropriate

Don't

Talk too much, waffle or interrupt
Don't avoid questions
Spend the whole time talking about yourself
Smoke, chew gum etc
Lie and make up answers - you will get found out
Pretend to be someone else - you will have to spend a long time at work and this pretence can't be sustained for long
Don't presume you have the position
Use "ums" "ya know" "obviously" etc

At the end of the interview

Keep all your questions brief, to the point and relevant, and don't forget your manners - ask if there is anything else he/she would like to know about you, try to establish when you will hear if you have been successful and thank them for their time. Tell the interviewer why you are interested in the job and ask for a business card so that you can follow up the interview with a thank you letter or email. (This is also a great opportunity for you to highlight the key benefits you would bring to the role).

Fun Interview Cards

Purchase your own set of interview cards here - designed and sold by the Directors of Resourcing Matters, these cards are a fun way to increase your skills.

You can flip a card a day and practice the tips; Breaking your preparation down to smaller chunks or play “Crazy Eights” with your friends.

Pack of 52 Cards
Price £3.00