Picture this: You're lead into the interview. Conversation begins smoothly and you feel calm and collected, giving beautifully articulate responses that continue to show your years of experience and skill. And as you walk out of the interview, firmly shaking their hand and leaving them with a smile, you feel confident that you've offered them the best interview experience possible. Sounds like fiction? This experience could be yours if you follow some of the tips that Artisan's Corporate Pod have presented for you.

Preparing yourself for the uncertainty that is the job market can be a little mind blowing and overwhelming. It may have been a long time since you needed to look for work, let alone attended an interview! A little bit of preparation and a clear head can work wonders when it comes to making the most of new employment opportunities. It's easier than you may think to put your best foot forward by planning and communicating effectively for job interviews, how to remain calm...and how to make unforgettable impressions.

First of all: GET EXCITED, GET POSITIVE AND BACK YOURSELF 100% ALL THE WAY!

Research, Research Research:
Take some time to research exactly what the Company you are applying to actually do, their culture, their mission statement, how long they have been around, who are their major suppliers / clients, milestones?
Make sure you take notes and understand the role you are applying for.
Take some time to think about why you are the BEST and ONLY person for the role – focus on those points (you may even like to create a mantra).
Understand your own resume – know what you have submitted and prepare to substantiate your claims made.
Prepare a set of your own question to ask in the interview (about the role, the company, progression etc).
Be PASSIONATE in your approach.

Plan, Plan, Plan:
Make sure you have the accurate details of the interview well in advance – the address, the contact phone number, the name of the person you are meeting and directions /transport and travel time details for the appointment.
Make sure you arrived at LEAST fifteen minutes prior to your scheduled appointment.
Make sure you have your mobile phone topped up in case of an emergency.
Make sure you turn your mobile phone OFF on arrival.

Groom, Groom, Groom:
Make sure you look the part – the first impression is the one that sticks.
Do you have food in your teeth? Have a mint, take a deep breath, pull hose shoulders back and don’t frown so much.
Dress in your smartest and tidiest kit, leaving no room for error (shoes too) – if you don’t have one, borrow a friends.
Make sure you and your hair are squeaky clean, and that you smell terrific (but subtle).

Greet, Greet, Greet:
On arrival, promptly report to reception and notify them of your arrival and who you are there to meet.
Greet your interviewer (s) with a firm handshake and eye contact.
Maintain eye contact throughout – be professional and confident.
Listen carefully before rushing into answer questions.
Breathe, don’t fidget, smile.
Use the opportunity to SHINE and be POSITIVE.

Breathe Out:
Complete the interview with that same firm handshake and eye contact, a smile and a spring in your step (be glad that you OWNED it!)