No doubt you’ll have heard the phase “failing to prepare is preparing to fail”. This is as true for interviews as anything else. Prepare well and you will improve your chances of success.

Research shows that people who prepare well for interviews:

* Feel more relaxed
* Know what the job is about
* Anticipate most of the questions they will be asked
* Have answers prepared for those questions that show them in their best light
* Sell themselves most effectively
* Come out of the interview feeling they did their best


Here is our list of things you need to cover:

* Research the Company and job and make notes. You would be surprised how many people arrive for interviews knowing little and sometimes nothing about the Company or what they will be doing day to day in the job for which they are applying. Not only will you be prepared, but you'll look professional too, right at the start. Ask to refer to your notes in the interview just to show you have prepared!
* Plan your arrival and your clothes/appearance. Do not create a bad first impression. What you say will count for more with most interviewers, but why give them anything to worry about.
* Write down likely questions and suitable answers. This is key. Too many interviewees fail because they do not expect and are therefore not prepared for certain questions.
* List some questions to ask. Even if you have none, ask at least 1. It shows you are genuinely interested and serious about choosing the right position.