1. The psychological guidance on getting ready for a job interview Presented by: Irene Antoniou (BSc, MSc Psychology, MSc Management in Organisations, PhD candidate) University of Cyprus November, 2013

2. Interview Interview is a certain stage of the selection process.

3. Preparing yourself Action plan (prior to the interview) Stage 1: a few days in advance Stage 2: one day in advance Stage 3: fifteen minutes in advance

4. Preparing yourself: stage 1

5. Data Make search of the place you go (address, telephone number, and how to get there) Anticipate a possibility of a traffic jam or parking problems Make research about the company (web-site) (its history, main clients, products/services, competitors) !! Skills required Make search about the person you will meet (if applicable) (position, name, surname)

6. Documentation Be familiar with your CV, make a copy and take it with you Any supportive evidence (certificates, awards) Make a list of the possible interviewer's questions (identify your strengths) Make a list of the possible interviewer's questions (identify your strengths) Practice! Additionally: A notebook, a USB memory stick, handouts for the panel interview (if required)

7. Dressing code Be dressed: Professionally Comfortably Be sure of: Neat hairstyle Polished shoes Moderate high heels Limited jewelry Light make-up, perfume Manicured nails

8. Preparing yourself: stage 2 Reducing the level of stress Get organised: Prepare all your belongings in advance Have a proper sleep (get an early night) Have a proper meal

9. Preparing yourself: stage 3 Final Check: Physical appearance Your mobile phone is put into silent mode BE YOURSELF

10. Usual structure of the interview 1.Introduction (‘ice-breaking’) 2.Body (specific information request) 3.Closing stage (show your interest in the job, be sure that you know what the next step will be)

11. "7%-38%-55% rule" “Total Liking = 7% Verbal Liking + 38% Vocal Liking + 55% Facial Liking” (A. Mehrabian)

12. Etiquette Do’s A firm handshake Make eye contact Wait for the interviewer to offer a chair Sit straight Keep eye contact Use appropriate language Listen carefully Answer questions directly Ask for clarification Be confident Source: Cooperative extension, University of California, vol 1, no. 3, 2000

13. Tapping feet Lack of eye contact Leaning back Indecisive phrases Source: www.educorporatebridge.comwww.educorporatebridge.comDon’ts

14. Following the interview Thank you letter: Thank the interviewer for the time spent Express interest in the job Briefly highlight your qualifications Indicate that you look forward to hearing from them soon In case if they asked you to send additional documents, do so Proofread your follow up letter

15. Check list Collect information about the company Analyse the job description Choose an appropriate interview outfit Think of what to take with you Plan your way to get there Tactics of stress management Interview manners / non-verbal communication Thank you letter within 24 hours