Advice

Interview dress code rules:

-Smart Casual; Many industry sectors are becoming more flexible about dress codes, often even encouraging a smart-casual look over wearing a suit. For an interview a look like this allows you to give off a professional image but also show your own personality and feel more confident in your appearance. As a precaution - if you can't find out what the dress code is, go smarter rather than more casual

-Full formal; If you are applying to a very traditional organisation, then they are likely to have a stricter dress code e.g. suits.  In this case, try to echo the same style to reinforce the impression of you as “one of them”

-Accessories; are important but remember not to overdo it; Briefcases and handbags should be smart and the contents well-organised so you won't spend 10 minutes searching for a pen if you have to fill something out quickly.

-Good grooming;  Make-up for women should be subtle and unfussy, the hairstyle should be updated with a neat but modern style so to portray a tidy and together look. Men need to be clean-shaven or have their beards closely trimmed.  Clean fingernails, fresh breath, deodorant are all essential rather than afterthoughts.  Use aftershave or perfume sparingly as it can be quite intense in a small interview room.

-Footwear; Heels are fine but they should be comfortable for walking, you never know if you will go on a tour of the office. Clean and shine shoes to also make a good impression.

Body language in the interview

It may sound weird but body language has a big part to play in your job interview. Research shows less than 10% of communication comes from the words we actually say. Really… the rest is all down to how we move, how we sit and other body language.

Negative body language:

-Slouch and keep your arms crossed and you look defensive and uninterested.

-Don’t wait in reception with your legs stretched out, feet crossed and hands clasped behind your head… this can signal a casual uninterested attitude.

-Are you sitting comfortably or are you a little TOO relaxed about an interview you should be taking seriously.

-Try not to show how tense you are. Tightly clutching a handbag or briefcase suggests a nervous candidate that lacks confidence.

-Crossing your arms can be interpreted as defensive; avoid it if you can

-An iron grip can imply arrogance but a limp handshake might suggest weak character.

-Beware of moving your feet up and down repeatedly in a nervous manner - it’s a sign of boredom, even if you don’t mean it to be.

-Resist the urge to touch your face, play with your hair when you speak or fidget, this suggests you’re lying.

Positive body language:

-Sit up straight and lean slightly forward and nod when the interviewer speaks and you will look more attentive.

-Your physical gestures should be open and expressive. You want to try to involve the interviewer in what you are saying. Keep palms up and open to suggest honesty, and avoid pointing or banging fists on the table to emphasise a point.

-Demonstrate curiosity and enthusiasm while your interviewer is speaking. Making direct eye contact and leaning slightly forward are two of the best cues.

-Imitate your interviewer’s positive body language to quickly build a rapport. Make sure you’re subtle though, or you’re more likely to cause alarm!

Ask questions

At the end of an interview you may be asked 'do you have any questions for me' or something along those lines. Saying no to this could mean  you are uninterested so prepare a few questions in advance.

These are a few examples:

-I’m very interested in this job and, I also feel my expectations are in line with the organisations’ values. Do you think I’m a good fit for the role?

This is a good question because it shows that  you are confident. It also makes the interviewer consider it straight away and if they may just say yes.

-If I was offered the job, what preparation could I do before commencing work?

This shows that you are motivated and eager so if you got the job you’d be happy to spend time making sure you’re good at it. The interviewer should be impressed by your willingness to go the extra mile.

-What do you particularly enjoy about working for this company?

This gives the interviewer the chance to sell the company to you so you will learn more about the organisation, hopefully something you have not heard before. As much as they are interviewing you companies know the best candidates need to hear success stories.

-If I’m successful, can you tell me when I am likely to resume?

Although you shouldn’t ask questions about things like salary or perks, you can ask about the job itself as it shows an interest. This shows you are a go-getter to start and you plan ahead.

-Is support available for people who want to gain extra skills?

Most companies have training and development opportunities, and want to be seen as places where staff can learn and transfer knowledge to each other.  When you ask this question it shows you want to do well in the company.

-I’m really impressed with your company and I’m confident I could do a great job. When can I expect to hear back from you?

This shows off that you're confident you’d be good for the job and is a MUST ASK question if you want to follow up on the interview afterwards. Otherwise, you'll be left wondering if and when you should contact them.