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Ten Steps to a Successful Job Interview
 Do some research. Try to find out as much as you can about the company in terms of what it does, its current problems and priorities. Most major employers will include company information on their Web sites, and business directories in public libraries can also provide useful background information.
 Prepare for the interview. Think about what you want to get across in terms of your strengths, abilities and experience. Try to anticipate the questions you will be asked and make sure you have positive answers. Go over the job description thoroughly and make a note of any questions you would like to ask at the interview.
 Plan ahead. Make sure you know exactly where the interview will be held and who you need to ask for. Work out how long the journey will take, so you can leave in plenty of time. If you intend travelling by train, find out where the nearest railway station is - don't leave it to the day of the interview.
 Don't worry! Being nervous about attending job interviews is normal and keeps you on your toes. The chances are that on the day you will feel far more nervous than you look and anyway most interviewers will make allowances for the fact that you are likely to be on edge. Try deep breathing immediately before the interview to calm your nerves.
 Create a positive impression. It probably goes without saying that you should look smart and presentable. Allow yourself plenty of time to get to the interview, so that you arrive at reception slightly early. Smile and shake hands firmly with all the interviewers when you meet them. Maintain eye contact whilst answering questions and speak clearly at your usual pace. If you are faced with a panel of interviewers, don't try to address them as an audience - it just doesn't work. Instead, focus your attention on the person asking the question and direct your reply to that individual.
 Believe in yourself. Confident people inspire confidence in others - if you appear
confident that you are able to do the job, the interviewer is more likely to believe that you can. Naturally, it is important not to go to the other extreme, or you may come across as arrogant or pushy.
 Sell yourself. Think of the interview as an opportunity to highlight your unique strengths and abilities. Make sure that you present yourself in the best possible light. But, never lie or make claims that you cannot substantiate - if you are found out, your employer would be entitled to cancel your employment contract. If you have an important skill or talent that you are not able to mention in answer to a question, don't be afraid to bring it up yourself at the end of the interview. Avoid simply answering 'Yes' and 'No' to questions - try to get a conversation going.
 Be enthusiastic about the job. When you are asked if you have any questions, use this as an opportunity to demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm. Begin with questions about on-the-job training, your responsibilities, people you will be working with, etc. Leave questions about pay and holidays until last.
 Think positively. Even if you are not certain you want the job, always give the impression that you do. Don't throw away a possible opportunity before you have had a proper chance to think about it. Remember to thank the interviewers for their time before you leave.
 Learn from your mistakes. After the interview, try to decide how well you did. Write down what you were asked and how you responded. Think about whether there was anything you could have done differently to improve your chances of getting the job. You should hear whether you have been successful or not within a week or so. But, don't be too hard on yourself if it's bad news. The reality is that, no matter how suitably qualified you may be for the job, there will probably be many others equally well qualified. The first big hurdle was landing the interview. Every time that happens, you can at least celebrate a small victory.
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