An interview is a two-way conversation

Not only are candidates forgetting the basics when applying for a job, they are also making mistakes in how they approach an interview.

Interview methods differ from firm to firm and from person to person, but the basics are more or less the same. So here are some tips for avoiding mistakes, making the most of the interview and bagging that job!

Take note of the basics
When you are offered an interview make sure to find out the following: where will the interview take place; what time is the interview; who's on the panel; will there be any tests; if so, what kind and how long will they take?

If you don't feel that you have enough information about the interview, ask! You do not want to feel anxious about what might happen in the interview when there are things you can find out beforehand. Which leads me on to preparation…

Preparation is key
It amazes me that some candidates spend hours on an application and get invited for an interview, but then do no preparation at all! First off make sure that you know your CV/application form inside out. This will make up the basis of your interview and you will be asked questions about the information you have included.  Never say, "Did I write that?"!

Second, make sure to find out as much as you can about the position you have applied for and what it involves, as well as researching the firm (you should have done this at application stage as well). This is so that in the interview you can demonstrate an understanding of the role that you are applying for and display evidence of having the required skills as well as showing that you know about the firm and are keen to work there.

Finally, consider what questions you will be asked. There are some staple questions that you should always prepare an answer for. These include: why this career choice (ie, law); why this firm; and why this particular position.

Dress appropriately
I know this sounds obvious, but trust me it isn't to everyone. If you want the interviewer to take you seriously you must dress in a professional manner so wear a clean suit and smart, polished shoes. Consider your overall presentation as well - hair should be clean, neat and tidy (no greasy, floppy fringes), women's make-up should be conservative (no sparkly green eye-shadow) and men should be clean shaven or have a neat beard (no straggly goatees). You will be judged on your appearance in the sense that the interviewer has to be confident that he/she could put you in front of a client so you should be dressed in a manner that is suitable for that.

Try to build a rapport with the interviewer
Again, I'm stating the obvious but make eye contact. I realise that you might be nervous but this is something you'll have to get over. In just about any job you do you'll be expected to converse and interact with members of your team and clients, and the interview is your chance to show that you can. If possible, try to have practice interview sessions at your careers service or even get a friend to act out a mock interview with you.

Remember that the interviewer is not there to intimidate and belittle you. He/she wants you to do well, to sell yourself and to show that you are the right person for the job. Don't make the interviewer's job harder by giving monosyllabic answers. A good interview is one that feels like a conversation.

Be confident in your answers
As I said earlier, there are staple questions that you should be prepared for but an interviewer will often ask a curveball question to see how you react. You need to be able to show that you are able to think on your feet and respond to anything that is thrown at you. It's fine to take a few moments to consider your response. And even if your response it not what the interviewer was after, being able  to confidently explain your point of view will go a long way in the interviewer's eyes.

An interviewer might also ask about a recent story in the press so make sure that you are up to date with current affairs. Don't get caught out by not knowing your Jonathon Djanogly from your Jonathan Ross.

One crucial tip - when asked, "What interests you about this position?", never, ever reply "Well, it's a job"!

The killer question
You should always have some questions prepared to ask at the end of the interview. Try to ask a question about the firm's business or current place in the market rather than a generic, "Who will I be working with?". Asking about the firm, a recent deal or other recent news about the firm shows that you have taken a genuine interest in that firm and have taken time to find out more about it. Don't ask a question that has already been answered. For example, if the interviewer has given you a run down of the departments in the firm don't ask how many departments there are.

Following this advice should help you to fare better at interview. Remember it is a competitive market so the more preparation you do and the more practice you have the better position you will be in. And one final tip: at the end of the interview you should thank the interviewer for his/her time. Obvious, but not always done!