The scariest thing in the world! (Interview Tips & Advice)

Member Name: Lady1981

Product:	Interview Tips & Advice
Date:	11/05/09 (109 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: a great big payrise and promotion??

Disadvantages: Flippin scary!

Eeek! Interviews! The scariest things in the world! I can't say that I am the perfect interviewee but here are a few things I have read about interviews over the last week or two...

First impressions matter! It is very important to look smart, tidy and professional when going for an interview. Unless you're going for a fashion related job or similar I would suggest that overly bold colours, large jewellery and inappropriate footwear (I'm thinking 5 inch stilettos!) should be avoided.

Hair should be clean and tidy and should be in a style which doesn't fall into your eyes or irritate you so that you are constantly pushing it out of your face. For the majority of jobs, unusually coloured hair should probably be toned down.

Facial piercings should be removed. The exception here is one pair of small studs in the ears are usually acceptable.

When meeting the interviewer, you should smile, look them in the eye and shakes hands firmly. Introduce yourself and don't sit down until you are asked.

Try to be concise and polite (goes without saying) during the interview. Don't speak too quickly and make sure you make eye contact with all interviewers if being interviewed by more than one person.

Sit up straight and try not to fiddle with your hair, rings or similar as this exudes nervousness.

Do not say anything negative about current or past employers, even if your boss is/was vile. This will only reflect negatively on you and you could be seen as indiscreet or a trouble maker.

It's really important that you do your homework and find out exactly what the firm does as this will show that you are keen when you can, for example, mention that you are aware that 35% of their clients are dog loving astronauts (or whatever).

Make sure you have some questions ready for the interviewer and it's perfectly acceptable to take a list of questions into the interview, and indeed this shows organisational skills.

When you leave the interview you should smile, make eye contact and shake hands again. Thank the interviewer for their time and say you look forward to hearing from them. And be enthusiastic, you want them to remember you in a positive, enthusiastic light!

Good luck!

Summary: it could change your life forever!