The interview

Remember that it is not just your experience and skill set that is being examined at an interview but also whether you will fit into the organisation’s culture. As well as trying to be yourself it is important to remember these do's and don'ts:

  • A firm handshake and an engaging smile are vital.

  • Maintain eye contact throughout. Looking around the room and avoiding the interviewers’ eyes gives a bad impression.

  • Be to the point and answer the question succinctly. Be aware of rambling in your answers. Stop talking when you have answered the question.

  • Do not fidget and be aware of your physical communication throughout the interview and at the same time monitor your interviewer’s body language. This may give you a clue as to how you are doing e.g. if the interviewer is looking bored or restless perhaps you are digressing too much!

  • Do not overly criticise your current employer (despite the fact that you are looking to leave).

  • Do not reply to a question with monosyllabic 'yes/no' answers.

  • Be positive and enthusiastic about the role for which you are being interviewed. Any reservations you may have should wait until you have received the offer and/or discussed it with your recruitment consultant.

  • Do not mention salary in the first interview unless expressly asked. Try and leave salary discussions until later interviews.

  • Always ask questions if you have the opportunity to do so.

  • Do not say anything that cannot be supported by examples.

  • Be natural. If you obtain an offer by acting then you’ll have to ’act’ for the duration of your employment.

  • Respect the interviewer, even if they are a relatively junior HR specialist. Do not be overconfident, because first interviews will often have the power to say no.

  • They will often be judging not only your technical ability, but also whether they would feel comfortable putting you in front of clients, so be professional, friendly and succinct.

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