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Q1: What are the right questions to ask at interview?

Questions that demonstrate a sense of interest for the position are a good way to start things rolling at an interview, this allows both parties to begin discussions and feel comfortable with the interview. Remember that in many cases the interviewer is as nervous as the interviewee. Firstly focus on questions that are to do with the job function and industry and avoid asking questions about money, hours to be worked and promotion. Creating discussion about the structure and process within the organisation or department will show a bigger interest in working for the company and how you may fit into the team.

Q2: How should I prepare for an interview?

Remember that someone will make an opinion of you within the first 10 seconds of meeting you. It is important to be punctual, dress smartly (appropriately) for the interview and try to feel comfortable and relaxed. A good technique to help you with this is to run through the interview in your mind several times the day before. Imagine the questions that may be asked and imaging yourself answering them with confidence and the interview going very well. This sounds very strange but it really works as you are telling your subconscious mind that you will do well, if your brain is telling you this you will do well. You have to believe me on this one.

As well as getting yourself emotionally ready you must do a little research on the job and the company, but don't over do your research knowledge in the interview. The data could be out of date or you could scare the interviewer!

Q3: How many companies should I speak to when looking for a role?

If you are in the position of having 3 or 4 interviews make sure that you go to all of them and don't just accept the first position if it come along. Getting the experience of the other interviews will always be good for future moves you make. Be honest in each interview and tell them that you do have other interviews to go to, but make sure you tell them that you are really interested in this job (that is if you are of course).

The key here is that you will know if it is the right job as it will feel good, it should not be just the money speaking.

Q4: What are the rules when negotiating a package?

If just starting off in the first few years of work, my best advice would be to get the job first. Once you are there, work hard and show true dedication to delivering the best you can. Believe me this will get you noticed amongst the 1,000s of others that are there just for the money. You will quickly find yourself moving up the ladder as employers are always looking for people that try their best and put the effort in. This is especially true when starting off, as many companies will be willing to spend money on training, which is something you need at the start of your career.

Negotiation can come later when you have experience and specific talents to offer.

Q5: What is best way to interview a person?

As above, your opinion of someone will be very quick in coming. As an interviewer you need to understand how this person will fit within your team and how you will be able to get on with this person. A small amount of personal information about interests and social activities outside of work will help you establish the possible synergies with your existing team. On a competency front a technique that has been used on me is that you ask someone to demonstrate their ability for the job in front of you. In my field the example was to discuss the pro's and con's of a building floor plan. Through this exercise the person interviewing me understood that I had at least the basic knowledge of my field. Don't make the task to difficult.