Jobs tip by information general

• It never fails impress if you can show initiative at the interview stage. It is common for your CV to be photocopied so that it can be given to various senior staff members. If you print out several copies in anticipation of this then it shows you to be forward thinking. Also, never be afraid to take along certificates, a portfolio of work or anything they might be interested in. having it to hand will work in your favour.

• Many companies interview potential candidates over the phone prior to choosing some for a face-to(face meeting. It is important to be prepared for such an interview and not take the call if you are driving or out with friends. It can be easy to panic when you really want a job but you’re not going to get it if you allow yourself to be interviewed in the middle of a busy supermarket. Rearrange the call so it can be conducted in a quiet, comfortable environment.

• One way of showing an interviewer you’re serious is to take a notebook. You might be told that notes won’t be necessary but you’ll have demonstrated efficiency. However if you do take notes, keep making eye contact with the interviewer. If you’ve bought a new notebook make it look used or interviewers will think you’ve brought a prop.

• It is a common process to be interviewed as part of a group. The idea behind this is to see how well you work with others and assess your ability to be a team player. It can often be more daunting being in a big group and easier to fade into the background too. If you naturally timid then it can be difficult to be noticed so make sure you impose yourself often enough to be heard. On the other hand, if you’re the type to take command you might want to hold back as it can be easy to cast yourself as overly dominant.