8 Do’s and Don’ts in an interview

The possible beginning of a career….

by Mohammed Waheed, Intern at Northern Lights PR

The Northern Lights PR internship intrigued me and I felt it was an opportunity that was not to be missed.  The interview went well, however, I expected rejection as I wasn’t a Bradford University student but hey presto, I was accepted!! I was told I had to “hit the ground running” as long we didn’t have to physically run around I was going to be fine and learn a lot.

The first week of the internship seem to approach quickly and I felt I was ready; the suit was washed, ironed and ready to make an impact. I was already nervous as my university results had been posted out and now it was my first day (by the way I got a 1^st class honours).

Unexpected!

I have however, been left a bit surprised at times already. I found the project with Northern Rail a real challenge. Being naive I just expected to be given some research and told what to do. Furthermore, finding out that my CV and interviewing skills were not great came as a surprise and made me question myself “Why did I get hired if my interview skills are poor?”

The DON’TS in an interview

1. Speaking too fast
2. Not understanding or hearing the question (which is apparently very common in interviews, especially for the first question).
3. Not having my hands on the table
4. Repeating things

However, as with most things there are not only negatives but also positives:

The DO’S of an interview

1. Using examples to answer a question is a great way to sell yourself
2. Ask questions
3. Eye contact
4. Flatter the company (talk about them and tell them why they are great)

We were also taught about blogging and how it can make an impact. My view of it as being a great way to attract business was non-existent, until the master class. Here I am a few hours later writing my first blog!!

The best part of the week was meeting John (photographer). It isn’t only because I am photogenic (ok, that’s a lie). John thought jumping around on the trampoline would make a good picture. I just thought it was my chance to “goof” around and act like a kid, however, I was…. and have been very professional since then. That is until I see the trampoline again!!

Any advice from you on the “Do’s” and “Don’ts” in an interview would be helpful? Or any interview stories you may want to share?