I really hate interviews. It takes me forever to decide on a suitable outfit, and I tend to babble under pressure…It’s so hard to stay looking professional, and being composed and intelligent! So it shocked me when I heard that it takes less then fifteen minutes for employers to decide whether to employ you…What can they possibly tell in that little time?! Here’s my top tips for acing that interview…

1. Avoid ‘Common’ Phrases

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Common phrases like “This is my dream job!” will be ignored by recruiters. It’s not that they don’t believe it, but almost every applicant will say it, and once you’ve heard it that many times, it becomes unbelievable and worthless. Think about other ways to express why you are perfect for the job, and why you want it. They’ll be much more appreciated!

2. Don’t Ask About Vacations

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While recruiters will like you asking questions about the job, don’t ask about vacations! This is something you can negotiate once you are offered the position. Most application forms will ask if you have a holiday planned within a set period, and allow you to give details if so. Fill this in honestly, and if you are interviewed, you know they are prepared for your absence. Any holidays that they don’t ask about, you can tell them about later!

3. Have A Coffee Before

  Photo Credit: TheCX

I’m terrible at fiddling when I’m nervous, and got into the habit of taking a bottle of water or a coffee into interviews, to give me something to sip at and fiddle with. It turns out that employers hate this! It shows disorganization, and unprofessionalism, and even disinterest. Calm your nerves by leaving yourself some time to drink a coffee and relax before you go, and don’t take a drink.