We Recruit

the following types of professionals:

View by Type:

Search by Area:

View complete list

Home » Interview Tips

Candidates - Interview Tips
The dos and don'ts of being a successful interviewee.

When invited for an interview, the jobseeker should be aware that the company are already impressed with you and are interested in further seeing what you have to say. The interview process is there to find out if you are as good as your application portrays you to be.

First impressions are important. Everyone knows this so no one should ever be marked down for it, but they are.

Tick Do:

  • Be on time, if you are going to be late, ring in and let them know
    Go fully prepared with all necessary paperwork
  • Ensure that you get across your points of achievement
  • Tell them about any responsibilities you have been given
  • Keep it clear and concise
  • Sell yourself to the interviewer
  • Be open and friendly
  • Keep your cool, tone and speed of voice must be moderate
  • Look the interviewer in the eye
  • Give the interviewer space and time to take stock and ask their questions
  • Use several different examples from different experiences as opposed to one for everything
  • Be polite and friendly to all the people in the company you meet
    Be prepared to talk, they want the information you can give them

Cross Don't:

  • Be late, it always gives a bad impression
  • Slouch, lean back, make yourself too comfortable
  • Let your eyes wander around the room
  • Use slang
  • Ramble on without answering questions
  • Go unprepared
  • Show any bad manners
  • Give one word answers, you're not answering the question properly
  • Lie about any positions/ work you have done
  • Use bad language
  • Never badmouth a past or present employer, it only makes you look bad

Top Ten Interview Tips

  1. The Crucial First Impression
    Dress smartly and make sure you’re on time. Smile!!!!!!!
  2. Preparation is the Key
    Do your homework! Make sure you know as much as you can about the company so you have sensible and intelligent questions to ask. Plus, you need to make sure you wish to work for the company.
  3. Write down and practice possible questions
    Writing down and practicing your questions will help you remember what they are and will also make them flow in the conversation.
  4. Language
    Don't overpower your interviewer with constant comments, it should be a two way conversation and make sure you only use positive statements.
  5. Talk about Specific Achievements
    Your possible future employer is always interested in the things you have achieved throughout your career so far. Make sure you include this information in your interview.
  1. Body Language
    Be aware of your body language. Don't put up a defensive barrier between your self and the interviewer. Sit up straight and don’t slouch, look alert and interested.
  2. Be honest
    Do not lie about your background or skills. You will get caught out.
  3. Take all your necessary paperwork
    Make sure you take all your necessary paperwork with you to your interview, and another copy of your CV, just in case.
  4. Be Enthusiastic and Positive
    Don't overdo it and start getting overexcited but make sure the interviewer is aware you are interested. Don’t criticise any previous employers within or without the industry.
  5. The Final Impression
    Smile, thank them for their time and say that you enjoyed discussing the job with them and you look forward to hearing from them soon.

Writing a CV

An online guide
to the essentials

Submit Your CV

Job Alerts

Get job vacancies to come to you

Get Job Alerts

Interview Tips

Be a successful interviewee

Read More

REC Member

We are members of the Recruitment & Employment Confederation