Forties People

According to a recent servey 8 out of 10 people take a lucky charm into an interview, 7 out of 10 of us take advice from a horoscope reading of the day.

Some of the lucky charms include:

• Lucky underwear
• Lucky jewellery
• Brooch
• Lucky shoes
• Key ring
• Lucky stone
• Lucky pen/pencil
• Lucky photograph of someone ie boyfriend/relative

My advice does not include any lucky charms but the following might be helpful.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS COUNT.  Make sure you make a good one!  It is estimated that 30% of an employer’s opinion of an interview candidate is formed within the first 30 seconds.  Here are a few ideas on making the most of that first half minute:

1. Do your homework on the company i.e. check it out on their website or go to your local reference library.  A client is always impressed if you have taken the trouble to do this prior to interview.  Ensure you know ALL about the job.

2. Don’t be tempted to have a quick cigarette or half a pint of lager to calm your nerves before an interview; the interviewer will be able to smell both on your breath.

3. Immaculate appearance, business dress, (suit), clean polished shoes.  Do not overdo make-up, perfume or after-shave.

4. Plan your route and timing carefully to arrive a few minutes early – but not too early.  Allow time for delay in reception and a long walk around the building.

5. SMILE, introduce yourself clearly and shake hands firmly.

6. During the course of the interview make regular eye contact.  When asked a question do not feel you always need to have a quick answer.  It is preferable to give some thought to the question before answering rather than say the first thing that comes into your head.

7. When you have your reply ready answer questions clearly and concisely, keep it simple and stick to the point, be animated and enthusiastic - don't sit looking blank.

8. Never interrupt when being spoken to.  Let the interviewer lead the interview.

9. Ask relevant questions.  Possibly arrive armed with a list and make sure the interviewer is aware of the benefits of employing you.

10. If you observe all these points and do not get the job, at least you have the satisfaction of knowing you gave it your best shot.  Remember, there is usually only one job but several candidates.  MAKE SURE YOU ARE THE BEST!!