Want to ace that interview?
Follow Barbara's do's and don'ts, and hopefully you'll be hearing
'the job's yours.'

Do:

• Arrive on time. Bring extra copies of your CV in case the interviewers do not have them. Create a strong and respectful impression as you arrive in reception. Yes, it is true: receptionists are often asked for their impression of the candidate.

• Shake hands. Make eye contact. Smile.

• Sit straight, but be natural. Avoid irritating mannerisms, such as cracking your knuckles or drumming your fingers. Demonstrate energy and enthusiasm.

• Call the interviewer Mr, Ms, or Mrs unless told otherwise. Use the interviewer's name from time to time.

• Be an attentive listener. Nod in agreement (resist the temptation to jump in and speak before the interviewer is finished.). Demonstrate active listening by occasionally rephrasing what has been said: 'So you're looking for someone with experience in…'

• Be consistent in all of your messages about yourself, including dress. Determine ahead of time the message you want to leave behind. Co-ordinate the verbal content of your message with your personal presentation to ensure the messages are consistent with your desired impression.

• Read how the interview is going. Watch for signs of boredom or restlessness. Do not be afraid to ask 'Is this what you were interested in hearing?'

• Relax. Think of this as an interesting exchange. If you are nervous, do not worry about it – it will only increase your anxiety and interfere with your ability to understand the questions. Interviewers understand. It is human to be nervous.

Don't:

• Be afraid to take the initiative in the interview or to offer more information than you were asked for.

• Worry too much about trick questions. Most interviewers will be interested in hearing about you rather than playing games. Take their questions at face value.

• Raise the subject of salary. Let the interviewer bring it up. If you are asked about salary expectations, give a general range such as the mid-50's, as opposed to $54,000. Or 'I'm looking for a competitive salary, but it's not my major motivation.'

• Assume that the interviewer has studied your CV in detail.