What is an Interview? An interview is a twenty minute window of opportunity to make a lasting first impression on your future employer. Fact: It takes less than 8 seconds to make a lasting first impression

 Fill out the Application with care and attention.  Ensure your hand writing is legible.  Watch for spelling mistakes, it is the most common fault in any application and it makes a very poor first impression.  Do not scribble out mistakes, it looks very untidy.  Do not change pen colour while filling out an application, use a Black or Blue pen only.  Read the application form thoroughly before completing it, understand exactly what you are applying for.  Complete the application honestly and accurately.

 Normally applicants are met on arrival and they are escorted to the interview area.  When you are introduced to the interviewer, establish eye contact and shake hands firmly.  The interviewer will most likely start with questions about school or pastimes, so relax and smile.

 Most interviews are ‘competencies’ based,so your questions will be on those.  Consider what the job is likely to be about and be prepared to talk on the subject.  Your ability to do the job will be based on your past experience and your attitude to working in a ‘customer oriented’ environment.  Be positive and look attentive at all times.

 Ensure that your appearance is clean-cut, neat and tidy.  A firm hand shake is also very important for first impressions.  Always arrive at least 10mins before the interview.  It is wise to do some research, either about the job or the Company, in order to help in the answering of questions.  Never answers a question with a “Yes” or “No” unless of course that is what the question requires.

 Sit upright with both your feet on the ground.  Place your hands on your knees or rest your hands in your lap.  Refrain from leaning back in your seat or sitting forward with your elbows resting on the interviewers desk.  If the interviewer relaxes and sits back to fold their legs don’t be fooled, this is not your cue to do the same.  Don’t look at your feet or hands when you are answering questions.  Although you may be nervous don’t fidget.  And finally don’t chew gum under any circumstances.

Female  Absolutely minimal Make up. Anything tasteful is acceptable.  It is advisable not to wear several sets of earrings, nose rings or, eyebrow bars.  Ensure that hands have a clean cared-for look.  Clothing should be clean, pressed, neat and conservative.  School uniform is acceptable once neat. Male  No earrings or eyebrow bars.  Clean shaven and a neat conservative hair cut.  Neat clean clothing - your school uniform is acceptable once it’s neat.  Footwear should be conservative also.  A shirt and tie is more than acceptable.

 Refrain from using bad language or looking unkempt.  Switch off mobile phone and beepers.  Do not answer any questions that you do not understand - apologise and ask the interviewer to repeat the question.  Socialising and watching T.V. are not valid hobbies.  Under no circumstances should you criticise your current employment or former employment.