Arriving early and looking the part, will help you appear competent and enthusiastic when going for an interview.

Does this look right for my job?

The most important part of making a good first impression is to make sure you select an outfit that matches the position. If you are applying for a position in an office or a shop, wear a business suit or dress. If you are applying for a job working on a warehouse floor wear neat casual, and for a labouring position wear clean, tidy and safety-conscious work clothes. If you find you don’t have anything suitable in your wardrobe and you can't afford a new outfit, you could consider borrowing something from a friend, looking in a second hand shop, or contacting a group like Fitted for Work.

Your overall approach

You should aim to be friendly, confident and assertive in any contact with a potential employer. Open, honest communication is the way to go.

Help notes really do help

Bring along your application, resume and a list of questions you might like to ask and any points about your skills, experience and knowledge that you want to remind yourself to mention in the interview. You could also bring samples of your own work to show if that's appropriate.

If you have a panel interview

Each of the panel members will probably have their own questions to ask you, but try to address your answers to all members of the panel. It’s important to make a good impression on each panel member as they all contribute to the decision about whether they offer you the job. Greet each of them individually by making eye contact and try to remember and address them by name, especially as you thank them for their time and say goodbye. This demonstrates your attention to detail and will leave them with a good impression.

Your body language

So much happens without us saying anything: we smile to show happiness, stare to show aggression, open our palms to show honesty, shake hands firmly to convey sincerity. Your body language conveys your personality and in an interview situation, it’s best to show a sense of inner self-confidence.

Do’s:

• smile
• shake their hand
• look them in the eye as you introduce yourself and when asking and answering questions 
• stand up straight and don't slouch in your seat
• lean forward when you are listening to the question and nod to show that you’re paying attention and are engaged in the conversation 

Don’ts:

• stare into space, slump or doodle because you will appear bored
• cross your arms tightly as you’ll look like you’re disagreeing with them
• tap your foot or fingers – if you know you're a fidgeter fold your hands in your lap
• stare as this can make people feel uncomfortable
• point as this appears aggressive
• clench your hands too tightly – this can seem defensive

If you know you will feel agitated see the Nerves are OK section for hints on how to work through your nerves.

Things to think about during an interview

1. Remember to turn off your mobile phone so it doesn't ring during the interview!
2. Silence is okay, it lets the employer know you are thoughtful. But if you're struggling ask them for help.
3. Speak clearly and try to keep your answers to the point – about four minutes or less.
4. Be completely honest about what you’ve done, your achievements or skills.
5. Don’t criticise your present or former employers.

More information

• Fitted for Work helps women obtain work by providing business clothing and helping with presentation and interview skills. Fitted for Work takes clients by referral only. Referral agencies include job network agencies, tertiary institutions and other organisations committed to supporting women improve their life chances. For more information visit the Fitted for Work website.