Tips for Impressing the Interviewer
Better late then never
This is not true in the case of an interview. Make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to get to the company, park and compose yourself. Aim to arrive at reception 10 minutes early.
Show them you have done your home work
Find out a bit about the company or industry to which you are applying. This shows knowledge and interest in the prospective employer and their business.
But I don't have a thing to wear
Dress appropriately - dress to the standard of the position or industry to which you are applying (be reasonable with this - if the standard is jeans and a t-shirt, wear slacks and a shirt).
Be positive
Don’t talk about your bad feelings or give any excuses about a negative experience. Focus on expressing the positive facts and what you have learnt from your experiences.
Follow directions
You are likely to be asked to fill out some preliminary paperwork. Do so without complaint - complaining may indicate to a prospective employer that you may have trouble taking directions.
Inform but don't ramble
Answer any questions that the interviewer may have and do not use one word answers. Remember the interviewer wants to hear about your experiences and skills, so be prepared to talk confidently and honestly about yourself. That being said, make sure that you do not get off the topic and answer the questions with irrelevant information. If you find yourself rambling - stop!
Be prepared to answer questions such as
What kind of work are you looking for? What are your strengths and weaknesses? If you can, do a trial run with a friend you are comfortable with - you'll be amazed how much of a difference this can make.
Relax
Remember it is an interview not an interrogation - it is simply a way for the interviewer to determine if you have the necessary skills to do the job. The interview is also an opportunity for you to determine if the position is right for you, so questions to the interviewer are encouraged.