Going for an interview can be one of the most nerve wrecking experiences. You have to try and charm the interviewer whilst being professional and have all the answers they are looking for. Not forgetting all the preparation beforehand: documents, research, outfit… there is just too much to handle!

Here are a few tips that may help you towards preparing for an interview.

#1 Dress like you.
You have to wear something you are comfortable in otherwise it’ll bother you as you are sitting in the chair. Don’t feel pressured to wear a full on suit or heels if you aren’t comfortable in it. As long as you are neat and presentable, that’s all that matters.

#2 Research.
Do your background checks! If it is a big company, you can google some possible interview questions. Otherwise look at their website and try and remember key points about them that makes you look like you are keen and interested. Otherwise what’s the point if you don’t know anything about them?

#3 Avoid hmm’s and umm’s.
When you are asked a question and you aren’t too sure what to answer, avoid the long hmmm before answering. Either pause for a second, take a sip of water if that is available or use filler words such as ‘so’. Obviously if you are stuck, they would understand (it is an interview after all) and you can just ask them to rephrase the question.

#4 Always ask questions.
Usually at the end of the interview, they would ask if you have answer questions. I think it is a good idea to always ask something to show you are curious and aren’t afraid to hold back. Obviously don’t ask ‘when do I start’ because that’s a bit eager. Usually, I ask when I am likely to hear back from them or what the next stage in the process is if I was successful. It’s a good way to prepare too!

#5 Be you.
Depending on what the role is you can always show some of your own personality. Whether that is through humour (if that is appropriate) or through a geeky quote you love. Try and give the interviewer something to remember you by.

I hope these tips were helpful for you – what are your interview top tips?