Attending the interview

Be prepared

Have the interview details

Note the time (start and finish), date and location of the interview. Make sure you have a contact number in case you are delayed or something unexpected happens.

Ask how the interview will be run and ask for the names and position titles of your interviewers.

Prepare a portfolio

Bring a professionally presented portfolio with your documents. Include anything you have sent to the company, copies of your qualifications and achievements, your academic transcript, resume and any written references you have.

Dress to impress

First impressions matter. Research the company's dress code and make sure you meet or exceed the standard. Dressing well shows you are serious about the job.

Behave appropriately

Arrive early

Check the route to the interview so you know how long it will take to get there. Aim to arrive about 10 minutes early. This way you will avoid feeling rushed and anxious and will have time to sit and collect your thoughts.

Try some deep breathing exercises to stay calm while you wait.

Get rid of distractions

Turn off your mobile phone, take off your sunglasses and ipod and put them away.

Be polite and attentive

Be polite to everyone you meet.Your interview begins as soon as you walk through the company doors.

Body language

Your body language will make a large impact on others. Smile and maintain eye contact.

Have good (but not rigid) posture, sit up straight and rest your hands in your lap. Don't fidget.

When meeting new people, stand, smile and give a firm handshake.

Answer questions thoughtfully

Listen to the whole question

Don't start answering the question in your mind before you have heard it all. Listen until the question is fully asked.

Pace yourself and speak clearly and honestly

Take a few moments to think about your answer. It is fine to ask for clarification if you do not understand the question.

Don't speak too fast or too slowly. Don't be too quiet or too loud.

Answer with enthusiasm in your tone and language.

Be honest in your answers. If you have been honest in your application, the employer has seen you have enough potential to want to interview you.

Handle inappropriate questions professionally

Not all interviewers are aware of questions they are not supposed to ask. They should not ask about your age, religion, ethnic background, marital status or gender because none of these are relevant to your ability to do the job. There are two ways to handle these sorts of questions.

• Politely ask why they are interested or why they think the question is relevant.
• Try to work out what their real concern is, and address it.

If you are comfortable answering the question, then do so.

Use your chance to ask questions

At the end of the interview you will usually be able to ask questions. Asking questions shows you are interested, and have the ability and confidence to get involved with the organisation.

Prepare a list beforehand

Try not to ask questions that could have been answered by doing some research before the interview. Thoughtful questions show you are serious about the role and have done your homework.

Your questions should also help you clarify any information that may influence your decision to accept the job.

Don't ask too many questions or ones that are too detailed. This might not create a good impression.

Questions you could ask

• How do you measure an employee's success in your organisation?
• In what ways do you support staff in their continuing education?
• What areas does your organisation prioritise in professional development?
• What could I expect to be involved in during my first year of employment with you?
• What are the three top priorities you would like to see accomplished if I came into this role?

End the interview on a positive note

Usually, employers will tell you what the next steps are in the selection process. If not, ask what the next steps are and how you will be notified.

At the end of the interview, restate your interest in, and suitability for, the role. Smile and thank the interviewers for seeing you.

Resources

Graduate interviews videos.