Job Interview Advice

A common mistake in a job interview is to go in knowing what examples you wish to use and then not really listening to the question, but simply reciting what you want to say. Always answer the question, don't go off on a tangent and keep the answer succinct. Don't come out of a job interview disappointed that you didn't get to say your best example. If the interviewer didn't ask the question, then your answer was not relevant to that job.

Try to get the interviewer to tell you what key skills and experiences they are looking for early in the job interview. This way you can adapt your answers accordingly.

The key to being a good communicator is not all about how you express yourself. It has as much to do with listening and when the job interviewer is speaking, don't appear bored. Lean forward and show interest, nod in the appropriate places and never yawn during a job interview.

There is no point telling the job interviewer that you are a really organised person, if you can't back it up. Always provide examples of how you are organised etc. Stress your achievements.

The job interviewer wants to see that you really want this specific job and want to work for them.

There is no point in lying and claiming that you can do things which aren't possible. Remember, if you lie, you may be offered the role, but it will become apparent very quickly that you aren't up to it and it would be unlikely that you would pass your probation.

Yes, no answers do not go down well at job interviews. Even if the question demands a yes or no, always elaborate and explain further.

It does not look professional to levy negative comments at your previous boss. Even if you left because you simply could not stand your old boss, always be professional. If you launch into a tirade, the interviewer will be left wondering what sort of attitude you would show towards them.

Keep the question in mind at all times. Answer succinctly and keep to the point.

If the question is a particularly tricky one, don't be afraid to take your time and think about your answer. One way to get more time is to ask the interviewer to repeat the question.

Questions about salary, benefits etc should be kept until the company have shown an interest in you. By asking questions about salary in a first interview you are indicating the real reason why you want the job. You need to demonstrate that you want to work for them, regardless of salary.