Why did you apply for this job?

What do you know about our company?

Why should we give you this job and not someone else?

What are your outstanding qualities?

What are your weaknesses?

What would you like to be doing five years from now?

Why do you want to leave your current job?

Why did you leave/are you looking to leave your (last) job?

What motivates you?

What are your ambitions?

What is your biggest achievement so far?

How do you take direction?

What would your previous employer say about you?

What didn’t you like about your last job?

What do you see as the main responsibilities of a _______?

Prepare yourself with as much information on the company and the position as possible. Increasingly, corporate websites provide full relevant information that can be quickly and easily accessed.

Arrive in good time, apart from good manners, this will give you the opportunity to read some information on the company in the reception area and gather your thoughts. It is natural to perhaps feel nervous before the interview commences; remember that all other applicants will be in the same situation as you – ­ don’t worry. If you are going to be late, telephone ahead and warn the company or us.

Dress appropriately for the interview. Rightly or wrongly, all kinds of opinions are formed and assumptions made on the appearance people present – ­ usually with immediate effect.

The first few minutes are vital when you meet the interviewer. The first impression can be the one that lasts. Greet the interviewer with a smile and strong handshake. From reception to the office, talk and relax, relieving the interviewer of the onus of starting the conversation.

During the interview do not avoid eye contact with the interviewer. Look and act alert and interested. It is important to avoid one word answers (especially NO), always aim to provide as much relevant information about you and your experience as possible.

An interview is a sales situation. You are selling yourself; therefore it is important that you find out what the interviewer is looking for. Don’t forget, however, that it is also a sales situation for the company – ­ your opportunity to get the information you want from them.

Ask questions and show a real interest in the position and the company, perhaps based on the information you previously received about them. Ensure that you leave with enough information tomake an informed decision on whether or not you wish to proceed. Aim for questions that indicate an interest in their line of work or products and your enthusiasm and interest in the role itself, rather than holiday entitlement, pensions etc.

As the interview draws to a close, if you are interested in the position, say so: “I am really keen on the position, what are your thoughts and when will I hear?”. Ensure that you are clear on what the next step in the interview procedure is.