An interview was once defined as "a conversation with a purpose" - it can, in fact, be viewed as many things; a game, a sales situation, a challenge. Above all, it is an artificial situation in which the interviewer is challenging the candidate's projected image of themselves. The successful candidates are those who can demonstrate the ability to rise above the immediate pressure of the situation and use the interview as an opportunity to effectively present themselves. There is no such thing as a standard interview. Although all interviewers will be seeking answers to assess your suitability for a particular position, their interview technique and style of questioning will probably vary tremendously.

Always take the time to think before you speak. Try and visualize what is really being asked rather than what was said.

Two basic rules: ARRIVE ON TIME and DRESS SUITABLY

• (Dress smartly and conservatively) Try to arrive a few minutes early to give yourself time to recover from the journey and to collect your thoughts.
• Most people get nervous about interviewers. Make a positive impression by making a confident entrance. Smile and give the interviewer a firm, confident, handshake.
• Maintain good eye contact with the interviewer and smile frequently. Do not look at the floor or over their shoulder.
• All the questions the interviewer asks are asked for a purpose. Try and think what is behind the question. For example, asking what you do in your spare time may really be being asked to ascertain how active/energetic you are.
• Do not answer in monosyllables, interviewers dread YES/NO answers. Try to give full and informative answers but do not ramble or waffle.
• Always "go for the job" even if ultimately you decide the opportunity is not for you. You should always aim to be offered the position. If you do not, then you will come across as disinterested.
• Always remember to "close" the interview. Ask for some commitment just as you would always ask for an order in a sales situation. You should leave the interview having clearly stated your interest in the role and having made a good attempt at asking for the job.

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