Interview tips | NSCG
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An interview is a discussion between you and an employer to find out if you can do the job. However, there are certain rules and conventions to follow in interviews. We all know that the interview can be a daunting experience, but with our help and your determination the interview process can be a positive experience.

Remember that you are being interviewed because the employer wants to hire people – not because he/she wants to trip you up or embarrass you. Through the interaction which will take place during the interview, the employer will be searching out your strong and weak points, evaluating you on your qualifications, skills, and intellectual qualities. The employer will also probe deeply to determine your attitudes, aptitudes, motivation and maturity.

Dos

  1. Dress smartly, look bright and attentive, and speak clearly and confidently.
  2. Find out where the venue is beforehand, how to get there and how long it takes
  3. Get your outfit ready the night before
  4. Prepare answers for the main questions - for example, why do you want the job, what are your strengths and weaknesses, what are the main tasks in this job
  5. Quote real examples of when you've used certain skills - just saying you've got a skill isn't enough
  6. Take your time when answering the questions. Make sure you understand the question and take your time if you need to think
  7. Sell yourself. No-one else is going to! Be positive about yourself and your experiences
  8. Turn off your mobile! Treat the interviewers with respect and give them your undivided attention

Don'ts

  1. Don’t be late!
  2. Don't swear or use slang words
  3. Don't slouch in your seat or do anything else that makes you look disinterested
  4. Don't smoke
  5. Don’t lie! The interviewer may see through you. Even if you get the job, your employer can dismiss you if they find out
  6. Don’t criticise former employers or colleagues. Interviewers may mark you down as a troublemaker and a gossip
  7. Don't slouch, fold your arms or adopt a posture which is defensive or aggressive
  8. Don't interrupt the interviewer