'How do I face 'em?'

Please provide some tips on how to attend interviews.

Interviews are all about choosing a partner and this is an opportunity for both the interviewer and the candidate to explore the possibility that they would be a good fit. It may be helpful to look at the interview as a working meeting between you and the interviewer, not an interrogation by the interviewer or a performance by you. Even the word "interview" should be looked at as an interaction of views, not a monologue or a game where interviewers try to catch people out or show off in an arrogant manner.

When the invitation comes, accept by phone and confirm it in writing. Even if it would not be your first choice for a job, go for the interview anyway as it will give you a good opportunity to practise your interview skills so that you are better prepared to do well later when the interview for your dream job comes along.

Check place, time, date, parking and contact details. These may seem like obvious points but if you get them wrong it could spoil your whole day!

Remember, this is a working meeting. You wouldn't go into a business meeting without preparation, nor should you go for an interview unprepared.

Research the company, division and job post, and even the interviewer if you have been given the name. This is absolutely essential. Carry out as much research as possible to find out as much as you can about the company, the people you may be seeing and the job you are applying for. The more you know, the more confident you will feel at the interview. While the internet is the easiest resource for researching companies, you can also review company brochures or annual statements and check local magazines and newspapers for recent articles about the company.

Talk with friends and family to see if you can find someone who already works at the company who can give you additional information. But never be tempted to ask for "inside information" or put pressure on someone to "pull a few strings" or call in a few favours. It is always best to conduct yourself professionally at all times.

Make a list of the questions you think you will be asked at the interview and write out and practise your answers. It is important that you are yourself at an interview, but having said that, like an actor rehearses his lines before a performance, you should do the same when it comes to answering the most commonly asked questions, even rehearsing in front of a mirror. Doing this will help you see yourself as others see you and will improve your ability to communicate effectively, concisely and convincingly.

Time yourself when you are practising your answers. Remember the two-minute rule: "If it can't be said in two minutes, don't say it." If you pause after two minutes or less and the interviewer asks you to provide further details, you have another two minutes. Rambling and unclear answers do not help you and you may lose the interviewer's attention. Rehearsals give you confidence and help you focus.

Here are some other interview tips:

- Wear what you would wear if you were working with that company. Appear well groomed. Don't forget to polish your shoes!

- Easy on the make-up. And no aftershave or perfume. Some people are allergic or put off by fragrances.

- Don't carry a bulky briefcase. A simple file folder or portfolio will do.

- No smoking! Although this may sound like you are being discriminated against if you are a smoker, there is a general tendency away from hiring smokers because work environments are becoming designated smoke-free areas.

- Don't go to the interview on an empty stomach. Although you may be nervous, it is always best to eat something light before an interview, even if it is just an apple.

- Take the invitation letter or contact details with you so you know exactly where to go and so you can phone if delayed.

- Be sure to get a good night's sleep before the interview.

- Relax! Most interviewers don't bite.

Daniel Ough, founder and director of jobsearchhelp.net, a division of Sandpiper Consultants, answers questions related to careers exclusively for readers of Friday.

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