Guidelines to ensure a successful interview include:

Interview Preparation

• Prior to interview, visit the company's website and research what they do. Ask for a copy of their literature explaining why you are requesting it.
  
  
• Carry out a trial run to their offices as traffic congestion varies and can affect your journey time. Plan your route using www.streetmap,co,uk or www.mapquest.co.uk
  
  
• Study the job description and identify the skills and experience they require.
  
  
• Plan your answers to questions by writing a list of possible questions they are likely to ask. Imagine that you are the interviewer interviewing you.
  
  
• Prepare yourself for non-technical questions such as: 'what are your strengths and weaknesses?' 'How do you cope with pressure?' 'How would your friends describe you? 'Why should we choose you? etc
  
  
• Prepare a number of intelligent questions for the interviewer such as 'What is the prospect for career development?' 'What further training will there be?' 'What are the expansion plans of the company?' 'Why would someone choose to work for you as apposed to one of your competitors?' What is the retention of your staff?
  
  
• Take sufficient copies of your CV with you so that you can hand a copy to the people you are being interviewed by.

The Interview

• First impressions count! Most receptionists will be asked about their first impression of you by the interviewer, so it is important you are professional and punctual. Switch off your mobile phone before the interview.
  
  
• Dress to impress! Always wear a smart, corporate suit in a dark colour - unless you have been advised otherwise. Blouses for ladies are preferable and men should wear a white or blue shirt with an appropriate tie. Shoes need to be clean. You should feel comfortable and confident with your attire, ready to make that positive first impression.
  
  
• Smile and walk confidently to the reception desk. Introduce yourself and state you have an appointment with 'name'. You may be asked to take a seat and wait. It always makes a good impression if you are seen to be reading company information made available in reception - and it may help you focus.
  
  
• Be positive and relax! Easier said than done, but it is essential you relax and focus your mind on the interview. The company want to see you because you have something they are interested in. Remember that they want the best out of you, a true indication of who you are and what you can offer.
  
  
• When met by the interviewer or whoever is taking you to meet the interviewer, stand, go forward to meet them, smile and shake their hand firmly but not tightly. It is ok to enter into polite conversation as you walk along to the interview room, but be careful not to be too informal.
  
  
• Wait to be offered a seat before you sit down and ensure that you are seated comfortably, do not slouch! A positive body language is important and you must not fidget as this may indicate you are nervous. Instead, maintain good eye contact and show interest in what the interviewer is saying.
  
  
• Think before you speak. Listen and take time to construct your answers. This is where your research and preparation will benefit you! If you have already anticipated the question, you will be more confident giving an appropriate answer. If you are unsure of a question, ask the interviewer to clarify. This is better than misunderstanding and giving an incorrect answer.
  
  
• Make positive statements and never say negative things about previous employers - it is highly unprofessional and reflects very badly on you. Instead, be positive about your future and how you can benefit the company. Show your motivation and willingness to learn and be a part of the team. You can be assertive without being aggressive or arrogant.
  
  
• During the interview, you will be asked to demonstrate your suitability for the job. Don't waffle! Give appropriate, relevant answers. Think why have they asked you this particular question? What are they trying to find out?
  
  
• Prepare answers to the following questions which are popular interview favourites:
  Tell me about yourself?
  What has been your greatest achievement so far?
  What are your strengths?
  What are your weaknesses?
  How would your family/friends/spouse describe you?
  Why do you think you're suitable for this role?
  Where do you see yourself in five years time?
  
  
• It is important to maintain a positive approach throughout your interview. If asked 'What are your weaknesses?', turn this into a strength. For example, use a professional weakness such as lack of experience (training can always overcome that) or one that can be turned around into strength such as 'I'm very focused at work, so sometimes people think I'm ignoring them'.
  
  
• Probe on any areas of the job, which you are uncertain about by using open questions, which start with: - Who, What, Why, When, How.
  
  
• If appropriate do take notes during the interview especially if employment details are discussed e.g., hours of work, pension conditions etc.
  
  
• Let your personality shine through.
  
  
• When you leave, thank everyone for their time. If not already indicated by the interviewer, you may ask how you have done. It is also important to find out when can you expect to get feedback on the interview and what would be the next stage. Ensure that you SMILE and leave with a firm handshake.