The secret of a successful interview lies in preparation, so it's worth spending a little time doing your homework.

Some of our clients will not only expect you to answer questions, but to take part in role-plays complete written tests (aptitude or psychometric) and prepare a presentation. As soon as we have made arrangements for your interview, you will be fully briefed by your account manager on the format of the interview, what you might need to prepare and what will be expected.

If you stick to a few guidelines created by Progressive Personnel, you can sail through your next job interview.

Before the interview
Preparation is essential. It may sound like common sense but many people make the fatal mistake of not doing their homework before walking into an interview.

• Research the organisation – look at its website (visit popular search engines such as www.google.co.uk or www.yahoo.co.uk) and read its latest annual report .
• Research the sector – take a look travel industry websites such as www.travelweekly.co.uk , www.ttgonline.co.uk or www.travelmole.com and magazines to get a feel for the latest developments.
• Find out as much as you can about the job. Your dedicated Account Manager will make you fully aware of this information.
• Prepare answers to the most common questions that often form the basis of most interviews, for example, “Why do you want this job?” , “Tell me about your biggest achievement to date?”, “How do you work in a team environment?” Remember, we are here to help, so if you need advice simply ask your dedicated account manager.
• Be ready with a few questions for the interviewer. This shows you're interested in the position and have taken time to think about the potential move.
• Progressive Personnel will inform you of the interview format well in advance and you will be contacted the night before the interview. This is your opportunity to ask your account manager any questions relating to the interview process, interviewers details and about the recruiting organisation.
• Make sure you dress appropriately. Looking smart not only shows you take pride in your appearance and helps impress the interviewer; it can also help boost your own confidence.
• Plan your journey and check for any potential delays. When available, we will provide you with a map.

At the interview
You must make a good impression in the crucial first few moments, so be sure not to damage your chances before you begin:

• Get to your interview at least five minutes early. If you are going to be unavoidably delayed, make sure you let your dedicated account manager at Progressive Personnel know.
• Always switch off your mobile phone before you enter the recruiter's building.

Remember, success here depends more on not getting flustered and thinking on your feet than having the right answer. Above all, be honest – and give reasons for your past behaviour or responses.

The style of interviews varies dramatically, but here are a few key points to remember:

• Be friendly and courteous to everyone you meet from the receptionist onwards – you never know who might have a say in your appointment.
• When you first meet the interviewer, introduce yourself by name and with a firm but friendly hand shake.
• Remember this is not just an opportunity for the organisation to assess your suitability for the role; you also need to use this interview to assess how suited you would be to them.
• This is an opportunity to sell yourself, you are the product and you need to tell the interviewer what you can do for the company, department and position.
• Eye contact is one of the most important aspects of nonverbal communication and can make a significant difference in how you present yourself. If you look away when speaking to someone, you could be viewed as lacking confidence or interest. In a panel interview, ensure you address everyone
• Remember to sit up in the chair as it makes you look attentive, and leaning forward a little makes you look as if you are taking an active interest. Avoid crossing your arms or legs as this creates a defensive barrier.
• When answering questions, relate parts of the job description to relevant experience on your CV. Many of our clients base their questions around the requirements highlighted on the job description. They will be looking for you to provide demonstrable examples.
• Make the most of your research and quote it where appropriate, employers are always impressed if you can demonstrate you have taken the time to research the information.
• Always let the interviewer finish speaking before giving your response.
• When the interview is over, remember to ask when you can expect to hear back and what the next stage will entail. Inform the interviewer that you will feedback your thoughts to your dedicated account manager at Progressive Personnel.

After the interview
Take stock of your overall interview performance, learn from the experience and prepare for the next step.

Contact your dedicated Account Manager at Progressive Personnel who will then run through your thoughts on how the interview went.