First of all, what is an interview? Well, after applying for a job, people get feedback either by e-mail or a phone call, asking them if they would like to come for an interview. Basically, an interview is when the boss of the company your applying to, (or someone on their behalf) wants to sit you down and discuss your skills and experiences further to see if you would be good enough to do the job that you applied for. This can be a daunting experience and sometimes even nerve wracking, whether it's your first or 100th interview. How do you feel sitting down in front of your potential employers, having to describe your good points and skills and why you feel the appropriate person for the job? Personally, I still find that my nerves get the better of me and I have had quite a few interviews. The basic purpose of an interview is so the interviewer can find out a little bit more about yourself and if you would be able to fit in at their company.

The best thing you can do is always prepare for the interview. I find it useful to check online for questions that would be asked at the interview and then write answers to them. Some basic questions asked at interviews are as follows:

Why do you want to work for us?

What skills can you contribute to our company?

Tell me a bit about yourself?

Why did you leave your previous job?

How do you cope under pressure?

What is your greatest strength?

What is your biggest weakness?

Now, at these interviews, sometimes the interviewers will try and catch you out. For example, they might ask you one of the above questions but then ask you to give an example. So try not to make up anything on the spot to make yourself sound great otherwise you might just get caught out. It is best to try and write down your skills and good points but also your weaknesses so that you don't sound too flawless. Interviewers know everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses but don't go too far and list out a whole spiel of what you're not good at as they don't like this either. Then, get someone (either a friend or family member) to ask you the questions so you can practice answering them. That way you will get the feel of being asked questions and you won't be uncomfortable. Practice makes perfect!

Here are some helpful ideas for a successful interview:

• Dress Smart and speak clearly
• Make sure you know where the interview is being held and how long it takes to get there so you are not late
• Prepare answers to questions you think they'll ask and then make at least 3 or 4 points in your answer.
• Give real examples of when you have used your skills
• Always look the interviewer in the eye when talking to or being spoke to
• Make sure you understand the question and take your time answering it
• Be positive about yourself and experiences
• Prepare questions to ask the interviewer at the end e.g what are the opportunities for progression within this company?
• Put your mobile on silent or turn it off.
  

And here are some definite No-Nos!

• Don't swear or use slang. This is rude.
• Don't be late. If you know you are going to be late then ring the interviewer as soon as you can to let them know.
• Don't slouch in your seat
• Don't lie. You'll only get caught out
• Don't be arrogant and assume you have got the job
• Do not criticise or bitch and moan about former employees/bosses. This looks bad.
• Don't argue with the interviewer
• Don't keep looking around the room like you're not paying attention. Act interested!

Just bear in mind, you are trying to sell yourself at this interview so be positive. Keep calm and focus and always speak clearly and confidently. Although nerves sometimes do get the better of us, we just need to breathe in and out slowly and focus on the job we want. (Another tip also, if you have sweaty hands from nerves, sometimes its a good idea to go to the bathroom and rinse them with cold water before you have to go and shake the interviewers hands!)