Ten Interview Tips…both for Jobs and for Life November 2, 2015 News Don’t be late – it’s always an insult. Remember to turn your phone off. Both the world and you will survive this brief loss of connection; and your personalised ring tone – half way through the interview – may not please the panel as much as it pleases you. Over-confidence/arrogance doesn’t play well, as in ‘For me to say I wasn’t a genius, well – I’d be lying to you and to myself.’ Those interviewing are looking for the ability to learn as well as for competence. Concerning appropriate dress, there’s nothing set in stone. But better over-dressed than under-dressed. Don’t moan about your present work place, as in ‘Some people are OK, but mostly I just feel like poisoning everybody.’ Work places benefit from a team player rather than a walking grudge. It’s tempting – but don’t lie about your achievements. This is the habit of the insecure and there’s no need for you to be that. And time will find you out… In your eagerness for the job, don’t forget to listen. Listen to the question without hurry. Wait for the ball to land in your court – rather than jumping over the net in anticipation. Sometimes when we’re nervous, we apologise too much. Don’t. Avoid all flakey ‘Oh, sorries!’ Be a stall holder confident of your goods. Selected eye contact is good…but not the fox-caught-in-headlights stare. We meet people with our eyes, so meet all those interviewing you at some point. No interview is the end of the story. Those interviewing you have brief power in the moment; but whatever the outcome, you have a life beyond this. Breathe in this truth as you reflect on the experience.