Succeeding at Job Interviews

Interviews can be some of the most stressful situations we have to face. From the moment you enter the potential employer's building to the time you are back outside, you are on show - and preparing to give a good performance is what can guarantee success or at least giving your best. You can tip the scales in your favour, with a little work beforehand.

You can start your preparation before you even know you've been invited to an interview. Understanding the purpose of interviews, and being aware of the contents of your own curriculum vitae or application form is essential preparation for any interview.

If you don't really feel the job is ideal for you, but that it's one you could settle for, you can approach the interview more as a means for giving you interview experience. But if the job is the one you really want - that elusive 'dream job' - then the interview becomes extremely important, and you will need to put all your effort into excelling at it.

Key Points:

• Understand the purpose of interviews, so you can structure your preparation accordingly.
• Prepare all the necessary information - if you don't need to use it, at least you had it ready.
• Get all your paperwork ready - organise it so you can easily find the information you need.
• Research the company interviewing you so you can ask them sensible questions and resolve any queries you may have.
• Research your own wants and needs - and be prepared to justify them if necessary.

Plan your journey with military precision, so everything goes smoothly on the day.