In most cases you will report to some sort of reception area, and be asked to wait there. This can present an opportunity.  Obviously, be polite to the receptionist, she will often report back to the interviewer, if not formally, informally!  It can also be an opportunity to get a little bit of inside track on the organisation.  So, if the receptionist is prepared to chat, it can prove a worthwhile exercise.  A few complimentary words about the company or reception area prior to the interview itself will probably help your cause.

The Interview – A False Situation

It is worth remembering that the interview situation is probably the most false situation you are ever likely to find yourself in during your life!  For example, you have to construct every sentence carefully, making sure not to say anything ambiguous, disrespectful, controversial or just plain stupid.  This has to be maintained from start to finish, and it ain’t easy!  In fact, it is downright unnatural.

The problem is that, unfortunately, until there is a better system, we are stuck with interviews.  You will know from past success that once you start your new job, you suddenly revert back to your normal, natural self!  Funnily enough, the interviewer can often become a normal human being as well.  Strange that!

The bottom line though, is, that you cannot really do anything about this scenario apart from use the advice given here to turn the situation to one where you have the keys that give you an advantage over the competition.

The Interview – Time To Start

Now the time has come, and you get called in to meet the interviewer.  I have covered the greeting of the interviewer in the CV section, so if you can’t remember that far back, go and have another read, but remember, those first impressions are crucial!

Now, I have already mentioned that you may be a little nervous.  It is equally possible that the interviewer may be nervous as well.  So those key first seconds should aim to put you both at ease, and the proper introduction as per the section earlier will help do this. This, in turn, will get the interview off on the right foot.

You also need to ensure you employ the right body language, and a quick re-read of that chapter will also help before attending an interview.

The interview (once you get there) is obviously a hugely important part of the job-hunting process.  Indeed, it is the only reference point that any prospective employer can take in assessing your suitability for their opening.  Your performance is therefore crucial.  To that end, I have already covered presentation and body language.

The Interview – Important

Here are a couple of other areas to be aware of;-

* Speech – How you speak is important.  I know I mentioned accent earlier, however, here I am talking in terms of clarity and delivery.  You should speak clearly and precisely. Speak at a slightly slower pace than normal.  This will help understanding as well as give you a little extra thinking time.  Be concise and to the point, and answer coherently.  Do not waffle.  You will lose the interviewers interest very quickly.  If you feel you have answered a question sufficiently, wait for the interviewer to speak again.  Do not be tempted to add to the answer if there is a short silence.

* Surroundings – The interview is a two-way thing.  It is to determine if the company likes you, and you like them.  So, whilst you should always maintain eye contact with the interviewer, try to take in the surroundings.  Do you like what you see? Do you get a good feel for the atmosphere? etc.