Appearance
Decide what you will ware well before the interview and make sure it is clean and
ironed. Make sure shoes are polished etc. Hair should be neat and men should shave unless they have a beard.
How formally you should dress will depend on the individual company and job but generally assume it is formal business dress and be it is better to be conservative unless told otherwise.
Punctuality
Nothing kills your chances quicker than being late. Find out where the interview is before time, including parking, public transport
etc. Make adequate provision to be there slightly early allowing for rush hour traffic and other unforeseen delays etc - it is better to be early and have to wait that to be late.
If you are delayed let the interviewing company know, a simple phone call can save your chances.
Research the company
Find out what as much as possible before the interview about the company. Most companies have a website that provides a range of information but often if you call the company's reception a few days before an interview and ask for company literature they will send you some.
If possible ask for a job specification before you attend interview.
Be Prepared
Bring extra copies of your CV/Resume and any references or certificates you may need. Have some questions ready should they ask for them. Be familiar with your own experience and resume/CV.
Be Positive
Enthusiasm counts so be positive. Make eye contact during the interview and shake hands firmly, but no prizes for cracking the bones in the interviewers hand!
Listening
It is important to listen carefully to what is said. Ensure you answer the question that is asked and if you are not clear what the question is ask for clarification.
Be Specific
If asked about your knowledge of XYZ give specific examples of your experience in this area.
Ask them questions
Often you are given the opportunity to ask questions. If not already covered in the interview ask such questions as why did the previous position holder leave?
What training is available? Etc.
There are many questions that can be asked at interview, but some are more common than others whilst at the same time not having an obvious answer.
Why do you want to leave your current job?
Emphasise that you are looking for a positive career move and new challenge.
If you are out of work, state your reason for leaving in as positively as possible.
Avoid being unduly negative about your current employer or boss or appearing too mercenary.
What do you think are your weaknesses?
Try and minimise any failings and emphasise strengths without claiming to be perfect!
Avoid personality failings and concentrate on mentioning professional skills that you could improve on.
Why should we employ you?
Provide a summary of your achievements and experience and relate that to how it could benefit a new employer.
What makes you want to work here?
This is an opportunity to show you know something about the interviewing company and mention areas of their products/services/technology/culture that appeals to
you. Avoid giving the impression that this is one of a huge number of potential employers that you have approached at random.
Where do you see yourself in two years?
Usually best to mention short and medium-term goals such as improving skills, contributing to a successful company etc.
Avoid 'witty' "in your job" type answers.
What salary are you seeking?
Often can be a balancing act between maximising a potential offer and pricing yourself out of the running.
Make efforts to know the salary range before attending interview. Know your bottom line and appear reasonable.
At this stage it is best to give a ballpark figure and say you would be negotiable around that level.
It is common for potential employers to check on current salary in references or ask for recent
pay-slips so do not attempt to inflate your current salary if asked but do include any benefits you may have.
