The performance that you put in at a job interview will probably decide whether your job search is over or whether it will continue for the foreseeable future. The job interview is the potential candidate’s opportunity to shine and to show prospective employers that they would indeed be a benefit to the company.

We all know that job interviews, even for the most seasoned and experienced, carry a certain amount of stress. This stress is further enhanced in the current economic climate when a good position that a candidate really aspires to are more difficult to secure. Whilst preparation will not eliminate the stress and nerves on the day, it will mitigate them and help you to perform better during the course of the interview.

Whilst it may seem like common sense, listed below are some tips that every person attending an interview should be aware of:

1. Appearance

The old adage is true, first impressions are lasting! Being attired to impress will not guarantee you a job, it will definitely guarantee you a good first impression. However if an effort hasn’t been put into your appearance and you make a poor first impression, then you are making the likelihood of being employed even harder – so looking professional/ job appropriate is extremely important.

The other thing to remember is that unless you are seeking work in the fashion industry then dress conservatively and in tune with the culture of the company.

2. Being overly confident

For those of you who are lucky enough to be confident in interviews, respect!  However it must be borne in mind that there is an extremely fine line between being confident and being arrogant.  It is obviously important to sell yourself and your good points, however ensure that you do not cross the line into being arrogant.

3. Preparation

There will always be the awkward questions “why do you want to work here” and “what’s the five year Plan”. However awkward the question is, and however clichéd the response might be, it is of the utmost importance to have a response – there is nothing more off putting then getting feeble responses.

Take the time to look at the company’s website, see if they have a mission statement, and understand fully what the job entails. It is true that the interviewer wants to be asked some questions as well, it shows that you took the time to prepare for the interview and are interested in the company.

4. Honesty

Sometimes when we really want to impress to get a position we think that there is no problem in the little white lie.  Do not under any circumstances lie on either your CV or at the interview, particularly regarding education as theses fact are always checked.  It is better to explain to the interviewer that the reason why you didn’t get the first class honours degree, than trying to cover it up. The interviewer will have more respect for your integrity!

5. Social Media

s soon as you enter the interview room your mobile phone should be switched off, having an email or phone call received during the course of an interview will leave the interviewer feeling that you, the candidate may have more important things to be doing at this time.

Facebook. Remember most experienced human resources personnel will check candidate’s Facebook pages, consequently be 100% happy that the content is appropriate for the world to see. It would be shame to lose the opportunity of an interview/job because of an in appropriate comment on Facebook. Also it is probably not the best idea to send a Facebook friend request to the interviewer.

6. And Finally…….

The requisites: Good eye contact, have a firm handshake, sit up straight in the chair, smile and be engaging.

Good Luck!