There is a saying, 'success is not always in the plans but in the planning'. This is more so when preparing for an interview.

» Confirm the details of when and where the interview is. You should also be given the name of the person to report to on the day.

» Do not be late and if possible be about 15 mins early, sufficient time to go to the toilet if need be but also to relax. It's abit like checking into an airport for a holiday flight, you can rest easy once your paperwork and luggage are checked in.  By getting to the interview early you can give yourself time to relax and collect your thoughts.

» If you have to report to reception first then greet with a smaile and a good morning/afternoon. Not only will you create a good impression of your polite manner but you will find it relaxing, especially when the response is equally polite.

» Relaxing before an interview is important, why not read a book, choose one of your favourites, it will take your mind off thinking about the interview therefore reducing any tensions you may have.  Take a note pad and write down any questions you have or thoughts aid memoir.

» Dress smartly and formal because it shows professionalism and do not unestimate the need for polished shoes! The first impression of you before the interview will be a lasting one so make it count.

» If you are greeted by your interview contact then stand straight, look into the persons eyes and smile. Hold your hand out and shake their hand firmly wishing a good morning/afternoon, and saying your name. If it is a lady then try not to press too hard a handshake.

» When you enter the interview room, look around and smaile and make eys contact with everyone wishing them a good morning/afternoon. This will impress and make you feel more relaxed.

» Remember an interview is a meeting to discuss a job opportunity. It is a process in which you are an equal participant because if you are the right candidate then they need you as much as you want the job. Feel yourself a participant and not as victim and the process should not appear too daughting.

» Body language is important so do not 'clamp up'. Rest your arms on you lap and try to relax.  Crooss your legs if you want as this can be a relaxed and comfortable position.

» Answer any questions as clearly and concisely as possible, do not go off on a tanjent believeing that more words are best. If they do not answer the questions then these are wasted words. If your answer is short but accurate, if the interviewer wants to open the question further for clarity then this is a different matter, but it is up to them, not you to provide more than is required. The more questions tyou feel you have responded well, the more you will relax and therefore improve you performance.

» Be prepared to ask sensible questions. This is part of your interview preparation and must be taken seriously. You should have two questions at least, three at the most. One should be about the organisation, and one specifically about the job role. A third question could be related to the future propects and development of the role. This is your chance to drive discussion so take it and if you can create a dialogue within the room then you have created a connection between you and potentially your future work colleagues. If you achieve this then it becomes less of an interview and more a meeting.