Interview Techniques Probably the most important step in achieving a successful interview is preparation. The primary purpose of an interview is to secure an offer for the job. You are only in the driver’s seat once you secure an offer; prior to the extending of an offer, you are simply a candidate. Therefore, it is vital before your interview, to prepare. There are many methods which you can employ in researching your prospective company. Look at the company’s web site most companies have established a presence on the World Wide Web. Typically, you can gain valuable information with respect to a company’s products and services, background, and values. Obtain Marketing Materials and company literature. Many companies will be happy to send you various corporate publications if you simply call and request information. Networking ask friends, family, and associates if they know anyone who works or has worked at the organization. Networking is often your best resource for getting the real information. Know your CV. This may sound strange, but many interviewers will read from your CV during the interview. If you can not remember what you wrote on your CV ‘work experience / Responsibilities’ etc. This will cause the interviewer to be weary of your statements. Have extra copies of your CV. It is always advisable to have extra copies of your CV with you at the interview, just in case your CV has been misplaced, or if you are asked to meet unscheduled company Representatives. The Interview You only get one chance to make a first impression. At the interview always be positive friendly and alert. When meeting the interviewer give a decent handshake be firm ‘but do not break the interviewers hand’, it is not a competition. Be aware of your body language and manor. Try to ensure you present yourself in a way that is comfortable to the interviewer. If your interviewer speaks in a slow and methodical manor, do not rush your answers, take your time and be as clear and concise as possible. You can follow up your answer with examples of your accomplishments, but at the end ‘Stop talking’. You may often be asked about skills you do not yet possess, but do not worry about these. If you have been called for an interview the interviewer already believes you can do the job. Under no circumstances lie about skills you do not possess, you will more than likely be caught out and that will be the end of your interview. When this type of question arises you should stress your ability to quickly acquire new skills and if possible give examples. Why you left or are leaving your present employer? Virtually every interviewer will ask you why you are leaving your present job. The one thing you do not want to stress above all else is money. That is not to say money is not important, but this should not be the main factor. It is far more positive to stress your need to further develop your experience / skills, increased responsibilities or change of location. Last, but not least Have your questions prepared. It is vitally important to prepare your questions before the Interview. This will reveal a greater level of interest in the job to the interviewer and also indicate that you have given serious thought about the job. The interview may raise questions you have not thought of and it is quite acceptable to ask these. It is also acceptable to inquire about the next stage of the interview process or decision dates. Finally, try not to worry about your interview, you should try to stay as composed as possible. Interviewers realise that many interviewee’s will be nervous at their Interview, but most will try to put you at ease to get the best from you as it is in their interest to do so, in order to best find out about your qualities.