interview advice

It’s perfectly normal to be nervous when you’re being interviewed for a new job. But preparing well in advance will increase your confidence and reduce your anxiety.

Before the interview think about why you want the job and what you can offer the organisation. Be ready to talk about your achievements and your career ambitions. If you've had any career gaps, make sure you can explain why. Interviewers often ask why you left previous jobs, so you'll need to explain the reasons.

You should research the organisation before the interview. Make sure you understand things like the size of the business, the number of employees as well as its history, products and services. Familiarise yourself with the job description, and following on from your application or CV, think about how your skills and experience match the requirements of the post. Interviewers will use the information on your application as the basis for their questions. This is your opportunity to elaborate on what they already know. Don't just repeat the information you've already provided, but expand on it by giving examples of how you achieved specific objectives. Always try to back up your answers with examples from your own work experiences.

Employers use interviews to find out whether you have the required knowledge and experience for the role, and to see if you will fit into the organisational culture. If they are looking for team players, talk about working with others to achieve goals. Provide examples of your strengths and how you have taken steps to improve your weak points. Explain how your skills and experience will benefit the organisation.

Prepare your answers to common questions - such as "why do you want the job?" - and practice your response with someone who will provide an honest assessment of both the content and your body language.

If more than one person is interviewing you ensure you connect with each interviewer. Make eye contact with the person asking the question, but also glance at the other members of the panel. Always show enthusiasm.

Often you will be asked if you have any questions. Try to think of some before attending. Your research into the organisation should help, but you should also ask about your role, such as what they hope you will achieve in the first few months. Don't forget to ask about the next stage of the selection process.