Prepared by V&J Associates - Professional CV Writers

You’ve written your CV, you’ve been invited to an interview; but what next? Below are a few helpful tips on how to survive an interview and remember; the candidate who prepares the most, will be the one who gets the job.

Interview Preparation

1. Do your homework

Know exactly where the interview will be and the time you need to arrive. Of all the interview tips featured here, this is the most important. Print off a map and, if you have time, do a dry run the day before, so you know how long it will take to get there. Being late for an interview gives a bad impression and makes the rest of the interview an uphill struggle.

2. Research the company

Do some homework on the company, if possible. If you are applying to a larger company, read their website and ensure you understand the full range of services they provide. You may be asked to tell the interviewer what you know about the company; so be prepared.

3. Prepare your answers

There are a number of standard questions that interviewers use and you can find hundreds of useful sites on the Internet, listing interview questions and answers. Think about the skills need to do the job and prepare answers to show how you demonstrated these skills at college.

4. Have your questions ready

At the end of an interview, you may be asked if you have any questions. Never ask about money or holidays at this stage, but try and ask something positive such as “What training will I receive?" or "If I am offered the job, how soon will I be able to start?”.

The Day Of The Interview

1. Take your CV with you

Always have a copy of your CV with you at the interview, as the interviewer will refer to it.

2. Dress appropriately

What you wear does depend on the job you are applying for, but always dress appropriately. Even if you don’t need to wear a suit, try to dress as smartly as possible.

3. Appear confident

Although you may not feel confident, appearance is everything. Look the interviewer in the eye and give a firm handshake.

The Interview

1. Appear keen

Listen to the interviewer, lean forward when they’re speaking and appear keen and eager. Don’t yawn or look bored (even if you are).

2. Give concrete examples

There is no point telling the interviewer that you’re an organised person, if you can’t back it up. Ensure that you can support everything you say with examples.

3. Be enthusiastic

The interviewer will want to see that you are keen to work for them, so smile and be as enthusiastic as possible.

4. Be honest

There is no point lying about your capabilities, as you will be found out. Just be honest.

5. Don’t make negative comments

If you are asked about your time at college, don’t make negative comments about your tutors, as this will appear unprofessional.

6. Don’t waffle

Keep the question in mind and keep to the point.

7. Take your time

If you are asked tricky questions, don’t rush, ask the interviewer to repeat the question and don’t be afraid to sit and think about your answer before you reply.