Your presentation and
etiquette are vitally important elements of the interview process.
Most interviewers form their impression of you within the first minute and
will have made up their mind about you within the first fifteen minutes.
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Wear
suitable business attire, unless otherwise advised by your consultant.
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Take
note of personal hygiene, especially on a hot day. Don't drink
alcohol, smoke or eat strong foods beforehand.
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Greet your interviewer with eye contact, a smile and a firm handshake,
and stand up when the interviewer enters or leaves the room.
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Speak clearly and compose your answers. Answer the questions
rather than merely telling the interviewer what you want to say.
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Sell
yourself but don't big-note! If you don't announce your abilities
and achievements your interviewer won't know - don't presume they know
what's on your CV.
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Even
if it becomes obvious that the role isn't for you, create the best
impression possible. You may come across the interviewer again
during the course of your career or there may be a future role at the
company that's suitable.
-
Let
the interviewer lead but take the opportunity to ask questions about the
role that haven't been covered, such as training, prospects and culture
etc - this shows interest and demonstrates your knowledge of the
company.
-
Ask
for feedback from your interviewer. It's better to get any
reservations out in the open - use the information to learn for next
time.
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Call
your consultant straight after your interview to give feedback -
positive or negative!
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Remember, an interview is a two-way process. They're selecting a
suitable employee but you're also selecting a suitable employer.
