This section is aimed at giving applicants ideas on what to do when sending in an application and how to prepare for interview.

The purpose of an application is register your interest in a position and to secure a place for interview. After the meeting it will remind the interviewer about you so it's very important to get the content and the style right from the outset.

• Pay attention to detail. Spelling mistakes are not impressive, nor is getting the name of the Company wrong.
• Always send your CV with a covering letter. Specify the job you are interested in, where you saw the advertisement and full contact details. It may also be a good idea to give a short summary of your experience to date and relate this to the position you are applying for.
• Do your research. Sell yourself - tell us why we should employ you.
• Keep a copy of your application to refer to if you reach the next stage.
• Get a trusted friend to read through your application to check for mistakes.

You've reached the interview stage. We have seen from your application that you have potential...so prove it!

• Prepare. Look at your application beforehand to refresh your memory.
• Ask for a copy of the job and personal specification to make sure you are fully aware of the requirements of the position.
• Research the Company and the job as much as you can by looking at web site, newspaper articles, company reports, brochures etc.
• Make sure you know where you're going! Turning up late at the wrong building is not a good start.
• Make a good impression, choosing carefully what you wear to the interview. It is imperative that you are well presented and groomed. Make sure you check out the dress code in advance. Whatever you choose, make sure you feel comfortable.
• Rehearse! Get a friend to run though your CV with you and hold 'mock' interview sessions.
• Plan and anticipate the questions. You cannot always predict the style of interview, however, there are a number of questions that are likely to be asked such as:
  • Give a brief synopsis of your career to date
  • Tell me about yourself
  • Tell me about your greatest achievements
  • Tell me why you would be the best candidate for this position

In general, most interviewers are looking for motivation, communication skills, integrity, ability to work under pressure, flexibility and initiative.

• Bring along the name of the person you are due to meet so you are prepared when you enter the building.
• Bring a copy of your CV so you can refer to it during the interview.
• Be confident and shake hands firmly - a limp handshake is not impressive. Make eye contact and smile!
• When walking to the interview room, it's a good idea to build rapport with the interviewer, talking about the weather or something simple which will break the ice.
• During the interview, listen to the questions you are asked - don't jump in with an answer when you think you know the question - you may be wrong! Think through an intelligent response before you reply.
• Make sure you have questions to ask the interviewer. An interview is a two way process - you need to find out about the Company too. Avoid selfish questions at this stage that focus on money or breaks etc, ask about the Company culture or for an overview of the core duties of the role.

When you have completed the interview, relax! All that remains is to wait to hear the outcome. Good Luck! We look forward to receiving your application.