Face-to-face interviews are the most common type of interview (especially if you are applying for a part-time job at uni).

Make sure you follow the steps below to ensure you perform well in the interview:

Before the interview:

• Prepare - we can’t stress it enough. If you’re applying for a part-time job make sure you know what the job will entail and that you know enough about the company. The same goes for a full-time graduate job.
• Research the company - make sure you research the company - how big is it? Is it a leader in the industry? What profit does it make per year? How many employees does it have? What countries does it operate in?
• Get your CV up to date - your CV could help to sell you (that’s effectively what you’re doing in an interview - selling yourself to the company). Check out our guide to the perfect student CV in the CV Section.
• Practice - ask someone you know to do a practice interview with you so that you can prepare your answers.
• Dress appropriately for the job you’re applying to - it’s better to be ‘too smart’ than ‘too scruffy’!

In the interview:

• Don’t put your hand out when you walk in - wait for the interviewer to put their hand out first to shake.
• Sit upright - it sounds obvious but if your slouching in your seat it gives the interviewer the impression you’re too laid back and don’t really care.
• NEVER cross your arms - it’s seen as being defensive - place your hands on your thighs instead.
• Listen intently and think about your answers before you speak. You need to make sure you answer the question specifically (in the same way as exams) rather than generically.
• Be concise in your answers - interviewers are busy people and don’t want people to babble.
• Smile - this shows that you’re positive and happy to be there. It shows the interviewer that you’re a positive person.
• Be positive - always ensure you’re answers are positive and that it would be a great opportunity for you to work for the company.
• Ask questions regarding career progression - this shows the interviewer that you are already thinking about a long term future with the company.

After the interview:

• Ask the interviewer for any feedback regarding your answers and ask if they have any concerns about any answers you gave. This will help you with all future interviews. for their time - after all they’re busy people and have the time out of their day to talk to you. - for example will they call you, are there further interviews etc. - you’re perfectly entitled to say that you need some time to think about it. You can get wrapped out with the talk of money without thinking about whether you’ll be happy in the job.
• Thank the interviewer
• Ask what the next steps are
• If you’re offered the job THINK before you accept