How to prepare for an interview

An interview is a way to determine and to find out if you can do and are suitable to the job. This is a discussion between you and an employer. However, there are certain rules and conventions to follow in interviews. Here is a checklist of the main do's and don'ts during interview:

Advantages:

1. Statistically, 7% of the interviewer's opinion of you is based from what you say - the rest is judged on how you look, act and sound, so dress smartly, look bright and attentive, and speak clearly and confidently.

2. Find out how to get to the venue and how long it takes.

3. Find out what kind of interview it will be, so you can prepare

4. Prepare answers for the main questions - for example, why do you want the job, what are your strengths and weaknesses, what are the main tasks in this job. Make about three or four points in each answer

5. Be confident, but not too confident to the point of boasting yourself.

6. Make sure you understand the question and take your time if you need to think, take your time when answering the questions

Inconveniences:

1. Don't be late!

2. Don't lie! The interviewer may see through you. Even if you get the job, your employer can dismiss you if they find out .

3. Don't be arrogant and assume you've got the job. Nothing turns off employers more than someone who is disrespectful and over-confident.

4. Don't discuss controversial topics such as religion, politics and gender relations .

5. Don't criticize former employers or colleagues. Interviewers may mark you down as a troublemaker and a gossip.

6. Don't let your nerves show too much. A few nerves are normal but extreme nerves will affect your performance. Use breathing techniques and try to remember that it's not a life and death situation - there are plenty of jobs out there!