1. Research

• Website including recent news
• Job description
• Know your interviewer(s)
• Read your resume thoroughly before the interview

2. Preparation

Be able to answer the following questions:

• Why do you want this job?
• Why should we hire you?
• What do you know about our company?
• Why do you want to work for us?

3. Be on time

• Plan your trip
• Arrive 5 to 10 minutes early, not earlier, definitely not late

4. Dress code

• Business suit
• Clean and tidy appearance
• Grooming is important

5. Etiquette

• Turn off your mobile/electronic devices
• Don’t chew gum – no food or drink
• No sunglasses

6. First impressions are lasting impressions

• Stand and greet
• Firm handshake
• Good eye contact
• Smile

7. Answering questions

• Be specific with your answers
• Use examples from past experiences
• Listen to the questions before answering
• Talk “I” not “we”
• Think before speaking
• If you need clarification – ask for it

8. Behavioral questions

• “Past behaviour predicts future behaviour”
• Think of relevant examples of past experiences that will support your answers to likely questions

9. Asking questions
Do’s

• Be prepared to ask questions about the company, the culture, the people, the job and career opportunity

Don’ts

• Ask about rate/salary
• Ask about trivial things, e.g. parking, lunch hour, holidays – ask your recruitment consultant
• Leave without knowing if you want the job
• Ask for direct feedback on your interview performance
• Criticize your current/former employer(s)

10. Conclusion

• Tell them you’re keen
• Ask about the next step
• Thank them for their time
• Call your recruiter immediately afterwards