The Do's :

​

• DO plan to arrive on time or a few minutes early. Late arrival for a job interview is never excusable.

• DO be courteous to the receptionist. Assume they will always share their impressions of you with the hiring manager!

• If presented with an application form, DO fill it out neatly and completely.

• DO greet the interviewer by their name.

• DO shake hands firmly.

• DO wait until you are offered a chair before sitting. Sit upright in your chair, look alert and interested at all times. Be a good listener as well as a good talker. Smile. 

• DO look the person in the eye while talking with them.

• DO follow the interviewer's leads but try to get the interviewer to describe the position and the duties early in the interview so that you can relate your background and skills to the position.

• DO make sure that your good points get across in a factual, sincere manner. Keep in mind that you alone can sell yourself to the interviewer. You must convince the interviewer of the need for you in their organisation.

• DO always conduct yourself as if you are determined to get the job you are discussing. Never close the door on an opportunity. It is better to be in a position where you can choose from a number of jobs - rather than only one.

• DO take a pen, paper and a diary with you. Then you can book the next appointment or ask for a date to follow up the result. It looks organised!

​

The Don'ts :

​

• DON'T answer questions with a simple yes or no. Explain wherever possible. Tell those things about yourself that relate to the position.

• DON'T lie. Answer questions truthfully, frankly and to the point as possible.

• DON'T ever make derogatory remarks about your present or former employer.

• DON'T over-answer questions.

• DON'T enquire about salary, holidays, bonuses or benefits unless you are positive the employer is interested in hiring you. However, you should know your market value and be prepared to specify your required salary or range.

• DON'T panic if there's a silence. Take a few seconds to think about your answers. Keep calm, smile, and wait.

• DON'T come across as overbearing, conceited or a "know-it-all". This includes talking down to the interviewer, placing hands behind your head, etc.