The Job Interview

By Sara Templeton

The dreaded job interview is always going to be a little bit scary, even for those self-assured types who are brimming with confidence.

It's often a time of self-reflection both before and after the questioning, and let's be honest - rejection can hurt. But herein we'll list some ideas that may help you on your quest.

Though sometimes interviews can be a little unpleasant - often making you feel like a faceless minnow or a milkable commodity - there are a few methods to remember in preparation for the "interview" that are sure-fire ways of impressing your interviewer.

Resume: One of the most important aspects of both seeking work and attempting to find a contract for casual, part time or full time work is how you sell yourself, and the resume is often the first line of attack. Never hand-write your CV - always use a computer and concisely detail where you've worked and how they can contacted.

Honesty: It's safe to say that even the most pious of job seekers will have, at some stage, embellished or exaggerated specific details of their occupational history. While easy to do and seemingly harmless, it's better to be forthright and honest when speaking with your interviewer, as your demeanour can change when you lie, and some people will pick up on this hesitation quickly.

Preparation: Going into a job interview with no idea of who your interviewer is, what the company does or how you might help the company prosper is a big no-no. Do the research (the Internet is bursting with information on almost all businesses these days) and be ready to answer often tough questions, some that may even relate to the particulars of your prospective new job.

Miscellaneous: Timing is important: Try to arrive five minutes early and don't forget to turn off your mobile phone. The way you present yourself is also important: While there's no need to splash out on thousand dollar designer threads from Europe, first impressions last a long time, and this will make an impact on most human beings, interviewers included.

Also, it's wise to act out a couple of simulation or mock interviews: Get used to answering succinctly and with confidence and get your mock interviewer to throw in a few curve-ball questions to keep you on your toes. Ask your mock interviewer if you have any nervous habits, such as looking at your toes or rubbing your arms: You want to be looking at your interviewer and giving them 100% of your attention.

Lastly, understanding the interviewers role is important. While a possible job contract rests with them, understand that they are simply doing what they're told by someone else further up the chain of command, and they just want to find the right person for the job they need to fill. They're often trying to impress someone too.

Keeping a positive mind-set is something to be well aware of as your interviewer is looking at how you as a person will fit in to the company, as well as just your skillset, training and prior experience.

Other than that, just be yourself, take a few deep breaths and maybe suck on a mint for fresh breath.