How to Prepare for an Interview - The Interview Itself

• Switch off your mobile phone

If you forget to switch your mobile off and receive a phone call, switch it off immediately with an apology.

• Get yourself into the right mindset

Stay natural - be positive and smile. 
Remember that your handshake says a lot about your personality. 
Before you sit down, wait for the invitation. 
Keep your hands under control – make sure to gesture but not too much. 
Listen to others without interrupting them. 
Express yourself clearly, briefly and intelligibly. 
Trust yourself. Be self-confident. 
Do not speak too quickly or too slowly. 
Choose the right words. 
Express a keen interest.

•  Remember your strengths  

Do not try to make a false impression by using jargon and technical details. 
Do not twist your personality and do not lie about your personal qualities. 
Your answers must stay strictly in a professional sphere. 
Don’t interrupt the interviewer; speak to the point and be precise. 
Do not criticize your former colleagues or employers. 
Do not avoid the answers. 
Do not lie. 
The discussion must be in the interviewer’s control.

•  Ask Questions

If I succeed, what are the main tasks I must focus on? 
Do you run any training schemes for the role? 
I am very interested in the role. Do you think that my experience and previous jobs are sufficient? 
Where could I find more information about your company? 
What is your company culture? 
Who will be my immediate superior? 
Am I going to have any subordinates? How many? 
What authority would the position have? 
What must be approved by my superior? 
Is it possible for me to be a part of the recruiting process in case of the need for a new team member? 
What is the shareholder structure of the company? 
What is the company´s position on the local, regional, and world market? 
Do you think I am a good candidate for the job and if so, why? 
Always be prepared to answer why you are asking these questions above.

•  Say thank you at the end of the interview

Say thank you at the end of the interview and ask what the other steps of the recruiting process are. 
Do not be frustrated by a possible failure. Every interview that you do improves your interview skills and makes you better for your next interview; always try to learn from your mistakes. To find out more about interviews, view our advice on different types of interview and types and frequently asked interview questions.