Job Interview Tips
Dress to Impress
If you are going for an interview it is customary to 'dress to impress' - which means a business suit, shirt and tie for men and business suit for women. First impressions are very important if you want to land the job, so be smart and professional.
Body Language
When you attend an interview be aware of your body language, as the interviewer will be. Look relaxed but not too laid back; be attentive, giving good eye contact to your interviewer, and look and appear professional in how you stand, shake hands and reply to their questions. Don't put other employers down and don't be overconfident. If you appear fidgety, slouchy or are paying more attention to what's happening around you it is unlikely you will project the right impression, regardless of your answers to the interviewers' questions.
References
It is standard practice for employers to ask for references - normally two, but sometimes three. The first should be an academic referee; usually your supervisor, but you could use the head or another member of the department. The other is a personal referee, someone (not a relative) who knows you as an individual; a family friend, a neighbour or perhaps a former employer who could comment on you as an employee as well. Don't name referees without first consulting them to seek their permission. You should also advise them on what you are applying for. Consider briefing them on what the job involves and what the employer is looking for. Make sure they have relevant information about you. It is also a good idea to keep referees informed on your progress. Give their full title (e.g. Professor, Dr.), status (e.g. Head of Department, Warden) and their correct address including the postcode.
More Useful Job Interview Tips
- Greet your interviewer standing, with a strong, firm handshake and a smile. Good body language is vital. Sit up straight with both feet on the floor. Speak clearly and confidently. Try to maintain a comfortable level of eye contact throughout.
- A standard interview will generally start with an introductory chat, moving on to questions specific to your application and experience. General information about the company and role may follow, finishing with an opportunity for you to ask your own questions.
- Be familiar with your CV and prepared to answer questions from it. Similarly, ensure you have read any job description thoroughly and think of ways in which your experience will benefit your potential employer.
- Listen to what is being asked of you. Think about your answers to more difficult questions and do not give irrelevant detail. Give positive examples from your experience to date but be concise. Avoid one-word answers. Prepare yourself in advance for likely questions
- Be ready to ask questions that you have prepared beforehand. This can demonstrate that you have thought about the role and done some research on the organisation. Ensure they are open questions, thus encouraging the interviewer to provide you with additional information.
- Show your enthusiasm for the role, even if you have some reservations. These can be discussed at a later stage.
