Personal interview — dos and don'ts.

An interview is a discussion between you and an employer to find out if you can do the job. It’s your chance to make a good impression — but there are a few rules worth following.

Do

• Dress smartly, look bright and attentive, and speak clearly and confidently. In the first few minutes, only about 7% of the interviewer’s opinion is formed by what you say — the rest comes from how you look, act and sound.
• Turn off your mobile phone and give the interviewer your undivided attention.
• Prepare answers for the core questions — why you want the job, your strengths and weaknesses, the main tasks in the role — with three or four points each.
• Get the job description in advance through the Training & Placement office or the company website, so you can relate your background to the role throughout.
• Clarify questions when needed, and make sure you’re answering what was actually asked.
• Be aware of your body language — smile, make eye contact, don’t slouch, and stay composed.
• Anticipate tough questions in advance so you can turn apparent weaknesses into strengths.
• Listen closely — to the words, tone and body language — it tells you how the interviewer thinks.

Don’t

• Don’t answer vague questions vaguely — ask the employer to be more specific, then respond.
• Never interrupt the interviewer, and don’t lie or argue.
• Don’t make answers too long, and avoid answering with a plain "yes" or "no" — keep it concise wherever possible.

Closing the Interview

• When the interviewer signals the end, use the moment to summarise your qualifications and restate your interest in the role.
• If the interview went well and you want to move forward, say so clearly.
• Don’t be discouraged if no offer or salary is discussed on the spot — the panel will likely want to compare candidates first.
• Make sure you’ve addressed two things by the end: why you’re interested in the company, and what you can offer it.
• Thank the interviewer for their time and consideration.