Job Seekers: Interview Tips

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Attending an Interview? Below are some helpful tips to consider when attending an interview:

Prior to the Interview

- Gather as much information about your potential employer as possible.
- Practice interviewing techniques with a friend or partner.
- Arrange your documents and copies in an organised way, so you are able to access them quickly.
- Be prepared with questions to ask your potential employer.
- Be prepared for the types of questions they may ask of you.
- Know yourself and know your achievements, so you can utilise the opportunities to illustrate your strengths.
- Be tactful about the reasons why you have left previous positions.
- Arrive at your interview approximately 10 minutes early. This allows you to relax, take in the atmosphere and attend to last minute grooming and to become comfortable with your surrounds.
- Be polite to everybody you encounter.
- Switch off your mobile phone.
- Ensure you are dressed professionally.
- For men: a suit, or at least a shirt and tie. Hair neatly groomed.
- For women: a suit, or at least trousers or a skirt with a collared shirt. Hosiery in preference to bare legs. Hair neatly styled.

- Acknowledge your potential employer when they greet you by standing and shaking hands. A firm handshake is appropriate. If you have a tendency to get sweaty palms, wipe them prior.
- Wait to be seated. Avoid leaning or placing things on the table.
- Frequently make eye contact with the interviewer. If there is more than one interviewer try to acknowledge all.
- Maintain a positive attitude and demonstrate enthusiasm, interest, and confidence. *Do not promise what you can't deliver.
- Be aware of your body language, e.g., do not cross your arms across your chest.
- Avoid talking too much.
- Avoid premature salary discussions.
- Do not discuss personal problems or problems you've had with previous colleagues.
- Thank the person/people who interviewed you.

- Why has this position become available?
- What are the main responsibilities of the position?
- How many people would I be working with?
- Who would I report to? Who would report to me?
- What is the training/induction period for this position?
- What objectives/standards would I be expected to meet?
- What are the resources available to carry out the role?
- How will my performance be managed if I am successful in obtaining this position?
- What is the culture of the workplace?
- What are the growth plans for the organisation?
- What opportunities are there for travel, further training, or advancement?
- What step do I need to take from here?