Interview

Read the following tips to help you prepare for an interview.

1. Memorize your CV.
2. Find out about the company. Visit the company's Web site or go see the offices. This will help you explain to the interviewer why you want to work there.
3. Make sure you know where your interview will take place so you're not late. You could even make the trip beforehand.
4. Decide what you are going to wear ahead of time.

You should also be aware that the first impression is often the one that people remember the most, and also the one that will probably count the most if an employer has to choose between two equally-qualified candidates. Always keep your sense of humour and stay calm: it will help!

Here are a few dos and don'ts:

Dos	Don'ts
Arrive 5 to 10 minutes ahead of time.	Don't arrive late or too early (which could increase your level of stress).
Arrive well groomed, watch your posture and dress appropriately.	Don't have bad breath, slouch or wear inappropriate clothing (jeans, old T-shirt or tank top, nose ring, running shoes, etc.).
Smile and give the interviewer a firm handshake when you introduce yourself. Look the interviewer in the eye throughout the interview. This will show that you are open to a discussion. Avoid making too many hand gestures as you speak.	Don't be shy, forget to smile, look at your feet or even worse, be arrogant or impatient.
Use formal language and address the interviewer with respect.	Don't swear, show disrespect or speak in slang.
Respond frankly, honestly and positively to questions while taking time (but not too much time) to think about your answers.	Don't interrupt the interviewer.
Speak well of former employers or colleagues (if the interviewer asks you about your relationships with them).	Don't criticize or put down former employers or colleagues.
Be natural, friendly, dynamic, interesting and alert.	Don't forget to think before you speak. Don't pretend to be someone you're not, appear uninterested or tune out of the conversation.
At the end of the interview, there is usually a question period. Use this time wisely if the interviewer didn't give you enough information about job tasks, salary or schedule.	Don't ask questions while the interviewer is speaking. Many of your questions will likely be answered if you are patient.
Thank the interviewer for his or her time and shake hands.	Don't leave without thanking or shaking hands with the interviewer.

• Many questions come up often during job interviews. You can start preparing by thinking of answers that will "sell" you to the employer. Read a list of these questions.
  
  
• Visit the section on interview evaluation criteria to find out more!

Even if you don't end up getting the job, the interview will have brought you valuable experience for the next one.