Before you go to your next interview, follow these 10 basic tips and the job's as good as yours.

Everyone approaches a job interview with some degree of apprehension.  Nerves are perfectly natural; the trick is not to let them weigh you down.

Here are a few proven strategies that will help you take control of the interview and ensure the whole process goes smoothly.

1.  Make sure you are clear in your own mind what type of work you want

• This is really important - you need to be certain from the beginning that you actually want the job.
• Know the job description and make sure it sounds good to you. Otherwise you may be wasting your own time and that of your interviewer.

2.  Do your homework on the company that is interviewing you

• If you have been introduced by an Advantage Recruitment Consultant ask them to give you plenty of background information on the company.  We have long-standing relationships with almost all our client companies so we know alot about them.
• Go to the company website and read all about them!  Print off information and highlight relevant and interesting facts and figures.
• If you don't have access to the internet - you can ring up the company and ask for a brochure or details that you could collect or be sent in advance.
• If you make it your business to learn about the company, it shows you are genuinely interested in working for them.

3.  Plan how best to present you skills and application to the role

• Re-read your CV and make new notes on the points you want to emphasise during the interview which are particularly relevant to the job description.

4.  Dress appropriately

• You should always look professional and smart.  Find out the dress code at the company.  Always ere on the side of being smarter.

5.  Make a positive first impression

• Offer a firm handshake on introduction and look your interviewer in the eye to ensure a perception of openness and enthusiasm.
• Smile.  An open smile gives a clear and positive first impression.

6.  Ask questions

• Wait for the right opportunity, then ask questions about the job, your potential prospects and personal career development.
• Ask about the company's commitment to training on the job and their long-term view of the role they are looking to fulfil.

7.  Be punctual

• Always arrive on time.  Don't be tempted to cut it fine.  Arrive sweating and stressed and you will be very lucky to get the job.

8.  Be part of the team

• Make sure you come across as a team player and demonstrate how you work well as part of a team.  This is very important in the majority of roles.

9.  Don't lie!

• For a start its usually obvious, because your pants will probably be on fire.  And secondly it always comes back to haunt you.  Stick to facts and your integrity will remain intact.

10.  Wish yourself 'Good Luck'

• Luck will probably play some part in getting any job.  So, if you don't get it, it may not be your fault.  Pick yourself up, go back to tip number one and try again.