How a candidate should prepare for an interview

Preparation before the interview
– One should put all testimonials, certificates, and degrees and arrange them in a file or briefcase so that they can be shown to the interviewer without fumbling
– He should try to imagine what sort of questions will be asked, keeping in mind the nature of the post and the qualifications required, and prepare accordingly. He should also prepare the questions that he would like to ask about the organization.
– It is better for a candidate to arrive five or ten minutes before time as this enables him to settle down.

Performance during the Interview

A. Appropriate Body Language

– At the time of entering, the candidate should compose his features in a pleasant expression. It should not be a scowl of concentration or a stupid smile.
– It is better to wait to be invited to sit down before doing so. In case the invitation is not forthcoming the candidate should ask for permission to sit.
– The candidate should walk and sit in a relaxed manner. The first impression is often the last impression.

B. Interaction

– The candidate should answer all the questions. He should not dodge them. If he doesn't know the answer, he should say so without hesitation.
– The candidate should sound polite and enthusiastic and even searching questions should be answered frankly and honestly.
– The candidate should not be nervous or anxious -- success at an interview us important, but it is not a matter of life and death

Some don'ts for candidates:
• don't be too polite
• don't act familiar with the interviewer
• don't appear desperate to get the job
• don't use slang, or smoke or chew gum during the interview
• don't ask for benefits till you have a firm offer

C. Closing the Interview

– At the time of parting, the candidate should not forget to thank the interviewer
– If the interview has gone well he could even venture a remark like, "I hope yo have good news from you."