The interview

You never get a second chance to make a first impression!

	Dress smartly and appropriately. (when through an agency you can always ask the consultant)
	Aim to arrive early, but not too early.
	Turn OFF the mobile
	Do not overdo your perfume or aftershave, ensure it was put on about 1 hour before, can be very overpowering
	Know who you will be meeting and their position.
	Always be polite and pleasant to the receptionist or the secretary who greets you. (this can be a winner)
	Avoid giving jokey answers.
	Have a copy of your CV and other support material to hand. (unless agency has supplied)

Your body language

	Shake hands firmly.
	Sit down in a relaxed, open position.
	Make frequent eye contact with the interviewer.
	Don’t get distracted with passer bys or looking out the window
	An occasional nod of the head shows that you are interested and understand what is being said.
	A smile (rather than a grin) is a sign of confidence

Your speech

	Speak slowly and clearly.
	Avoid jargon and abbreviated terms.
	Listen attentively to make sure you understand a question before answering it, repeat the question.
	Use gentle hand movements to aid your communication.
	Avoid using phrases such as "OK?" or "you know" after each sentence, or even “whatever!”
	Smile and inject enthusiasm into your voice.
	Feel and look confident or act confident even if you are not
	The tone of your voice makes you interesting to listen to.

Preparation

	Research the company before your interview.
	Understand the job description fully; if you have not got one ask for one prior to the interview.
	Hopefully you do get the opportunity to know who is going to be interviewing you, be aware sometimes there is an extra person sitting in.
	Get as much details from your consultant about the interviewer or interviewers, its great to find something that you may equally in common whether its doing the coast to coast or similar interests. Don’t get too involved in a conversation though.
	This demonstrates your initiative, drive and motivation.

Closing the interview

	If you are interested in the position let the interviewer know.
	If you need time to think about an offer, ask for it. Most employers respect the need for a considered judgment.
	Don't be discouraged if there is nothing "concrete" at the end of the interview.
	The employer almost always needs time to make THEIR considered judgment.
	Thank the interviewer for his/her time and consideration.
	Don't indulge in small talk at the end of the interview (or during it), unless invited to do so.

Points to consider:

	Know about the position for which you are being interviewed.
	Know by whom you are being interviewed and their position.
	Have a list of questions, which will impress the interviewer when you ask them. Not 'How much do you pay?'
	Size of company, how many branches, are they nationally or global.
	Who are their competitors
	Business philosophy and culture.
	Successes the company has had.
	Product range and market or services.

Best of luck