Top interview tips

Professional appearance

Your personal presentation will make a strong impression on the interviewer. This includes your clothes, posture and personal presentation. Greet the interviewer in a confident and professional manner. Your clothes should be slightly more formal than what is worn everyday in the job. If you aren't sure, a business suit is usually safe.

Prepare questions

Well researched questions show that you are interested in the job and the organisation. Not having questions suggests either you aren't prepared or interested.

Relax and smile

Before the interview visualise yourself smiling and talking comfortably with the the interviewer. Get into the habit when practicing of using the same posture, eye contact and tone of voice that you want to use in the interview. Breathe and speak slowly and calmly.

Practice and be natural

Although you won’t know exactly what will be asked, you can predict interview questions.  Practise answering many kinds of questions about your experience, both positive and negative. Having a variety of examples to draw from helps your answers sound more natural.

Understand the question behind the question

Interview questions are designed to check you have what's needed for that job. To answer more effectively, analyse each question to understand what information the interviewer needs be sure you can do the job well.

Your goal for the interview - sell yourself

Do not expect your written application will fill in any gaps in your interview. Your interview answers must highlight your strengths and show how you can benefit the organisation. Finish the interview knowing that the interviewer understands your skills, experience and achievements.

Close the interview on a positive note reaffirming your interest in the position.

Follow up

After the interview send a brief thank you note and let them know you'd appreciate any feedback regarding your performance in the interview.