The first 30 seconds of a job interview are the most important - so if you want to be a cut above the rest you need to prepare, you need to practice, and then on the day, you need to perform. Below are some tips for handling those all important interviews with your potential new employer:

Be prepared:
Re-read your CV and the job advert just before the interview. Research the company web site or obtain literature. If possible ask for a job specification before you attend the interview. Bring items the employer has asked for, such as references, certificates or your driving licence. Take a spare CV with you.

Write down and practice possible questions!
Write down and practice with someone a list of possible questions which you may be asked – it will make it easier to remember when you get to the interview.

Appearance:
Decide what you will wear well before the interview and make sure it is clean and ironed. Make sure shoes are polished etc. Hair should be neat and men should shave unless they have a beard. Do not smoke, chew gum, or eat garlic beforehand.

First impressions count:
Be on time! Practice getting to the venue to see how long it will take. Aim to be 10 minutes early and think about parking, possible delays and public transport reliability. Greet your interviewer with a smile and firm handshake. Try to relax and keep calm.

Remember your body language:
It is not what you say, but how you say it. Sit upright and try to maintain good eye contact. Accept that it is natural to be nervous. Enter the room confidently, shake hands firmly and introduce yourself.

Develop rapport:
Show energy, a sense of humour and smile. Be polite, friendly and look the interviewer in the eye when answering questions and listening. If you share similar interests, hobbies etc, all the better.

Remember your manners:
Look interested, and ask questions as well as answering. Speak clearly. Always greet the interviewer by his/her last name and try to pronounce it correctly. Don’t fidget, swear (even mildly), criticise your past employers or interrupt.

Talk about specific achievements!
Provide examples to prove your skills and achievements. Sell yourself – get your good points across and be positive. Interviewers like to hear about specific examples; how you solved problems, what you’ve learnt from them, how they can be improved.

Don't talk too much!
Communication is a two-way thing so give them a chance. Answer the interview question by more than a simple yes or no but try not to go over the 60 second limit. It is important to listen carefully to what is said back. 

Leave a positive final impression:
The way you say goodbye can leave a good impression for when they talk about you afterwards. Make sure that your handshake is firm and remember to smile and thank them for their time.