Put yourself in the shoes of the interviewer – what do they want to see/hear?

As well as having a good interviewing technique (eye contact, strong handshake, being articulate and concise etc), it is essential that the actual content of your conversation is appealing for an interviewer.

Obviously this varies to a certain extent from job to job which is why it is important to do as much background research as possible into the person you are meeting and what they are looking for from a candidate. Here are just a few examples of the key things which are likely to be important to a prospective employer:

• This role appeals specifically – no future employer wants to hear that you are desperate for a job, any job, and that this will simply “do”! They want to hear that your interest has been piqued particularly by this job, and what the reasons are for that.

• Not a stepping stone! – leading on from this, they will most likely want to hear that you are committed to the role which is on offer, not the one which is two promotions ahead of this one. Of course a healthy amount of ambition is great, and its good to show that you can recognise the progression potential and opportunities presented by the role and/or company, but equally the role you are applying for is the one, and this is the current business need

• Positive attitude – of course there must be a reason why you are looking for a new job and why you are leaving your current company. Your boss might be a complete nightmare, but nobody wants to hear all the negative things they have done! Remain positive, discreet and focus on what you can add to this job, not why you are leaving your old one.

• Interest – you are genuinely proactive, want to get involved and care about the company, their vision, ethos and history. Ask questions about the history of the company, how they got to where they are at and what they are hoping to achieve in the short and long term.

• Research! A good understanding of the job and the company is essential. For every interview you should think about what your understanding is of the firm, why you want to work there, what is your understanding of the role and why you would be good at it.

Written by Susie Fielding  – Attic Recruitment Senior Permanent Consultant