No matter how confident you are, no matter how well you know your sector or how qualified you are, a job interview is one of the most nerve-wracking processes a person can endure.
Mark Byrne, commercial director with the Brightwater Group, explains how best to prepare for interview.
Getting the interview: The majority of employers tend to phone-screen their applicants once they've shortlisted them. They need to be impressed by your phone manner before they invite you to the next stage, a face-to-face interview, so sound enthusiastic on that call.
Always try to match their schedule: Employers are always going to be understanding about fitting interview times around you but do try and be flexible. Not being flexible at that stage may set off alarm bells.
Research the company's history: Every company has a website – go on it, familiarise yourself with its history, culture, events that they attend and awards they have won. This shows a clear interest in the interviewers' organisation. Also speak to anyone you know who works there or has worked there.
Research the role: If you turn up for an interview and have little understanding of the role you're interviewing for, it will not go down well. Go through the job specification thoroughly.
Research interviewers: Find out at the very least who the people are who will be interviewing you. You need to know who it is, as this will be beneficial in helping you prepare sample answers.
Prepare sample questions: Practising sample interview questions will give you an advantage in that you will become more familiar with your own skills and experience. Hearing questions that you are familiar with will also boost your confidence during the interview.
During the interview: A firm handshake is essential, do also address them by their names and remember to smile. Body language is so important so remember to keep up your interest levels throughout the interview and keep eye contact with those interviewing you. If you do have a "brain-freeze" during the interview, take a deep breath and start again.