DELETE 10 tips to help you perform at your interview

Here are 10 tips for interview success.

• 1. First impressions count
  
  Dress smartly, arrive early and switch your phone off! Greet your interviewer with a smile and firm handshake. Make eye contact. The first 30 seconds are when the interviewer subconsciously makes decisions about whether they like you or not and whether you will fit into the team.
• 2. Be prepared
  
  Prepare thoroughly and re-read your CV and the job details just before the interview.
• 3. Don't waffle
  
  Answer questions properly - even if you need a few moments' silence to collect your thoughts.
• 4. Why should we hire you?
  
  Most job ads will list qualities we're looking for - a team worker, a good communicator - so it's up to you to think of examples of how you can demonstrate these skills. Be ready to talk about your knowledge, experience, abilities and skills. Have at least three strong points about yourself that you can relate to the job on offer.
• 5. Be positive
  
  Your interviewer will be thinking about what it would be like to work with you. We like to employ people who enjoy a challenge and are enthusiastic.
• 6. Remember your body language
  
  It is not always what you say, but how you say it. During the interview, don’t fold your arms and lean back or look to the floor! Sit upright and try to maintain good eye contact. Use your hands and lean forward when making a point.
• 7. Expect the unexpected
  
  Your interviewer may try to catch you off guard: It’s impossible to plan for every difficult question, but try to appear relaxed and in control. Ask the interviewer to repeat the question if necessary but do not evade it.
• 8. Develop rapport
  
  Show energy, a sense of humour and smile - It's infectious, being positive and enthusiastic. Be prepared to ask your interviewer questions about their role and any challenges the business is facing.
• 9. Clarify anything you are unsure of
  
  If you are not certain what’s meant by a particular question, ask! At the end, ask the interviewer if there is anything else he or she needs to know about you. Don’t be afraid to ask when you are likely to hear if you have been successful or not.
• 10. Remember your manners
  
  Be polite to everyone you meet, from the receptionist to your potential boss. Smile and show that you would be a friendly and valuable member of the team. When it comes to making a final decision between two equally qualified candidates, the one who comes across as most personable is bound to get the job!