Interviews - they are not all the same

Another day of interviews and the usual reminders /pleas. If you have been invited to an interview please research the company and the role. We will be testing your knowledge / understanding of the role and the organisation. After all it is a job interview.

Some more unusual tips from today's interviews. If you take something with you to interview whether it is a folder, bag or just some papers put them down when you get into the interview room anything else and it makes you look nervous and may distract the interviewer.

Hands, the old difficult decision, what to do with your hands. Hand gestures while talking are fine, it suggest enthusiasm, folded arms is a negative signal and be aware of making gestures in your lap. Men or women, do not sit with your legs akimbo making hand gestures in front of your crotch. Best option is to rest your hands in your lap 'demurely' with legs together or crossed.

Finally remember your interviewer is human too, contrary to popular belief we are not out to get you. Pay attention to body language from the interviewer: Do they look interested? Are they glazing over? Are they still writing notes? If your not sure you can ask does that answer your question or if there is anything that you missed out.

As an interviewer I can tell you the interview is not about finding out who is good at interviews but about trying to get the best out of you. Think of yourself as a sponge and the interviewer is trying to ring you out. If they ask follow up questions they are either expecting more or think that you have more to give. Follow up questions are not necessarily bad they mean you are still in with a chance.