Interview rules and guidelines for job seekers

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"There are some easy-to-follow, but all-important rules and guidelines for serious job seekers to ensure they have a comfortable and successful interview experience. While it is good to know what to do during an interview, perhaps equally important is to know what to avoid too," explains Charlotte Quenet-Meintjes, head of Workaway International South Africa.

She shares four of her most important interview tips below which are sure to land you your dream job:

Know who you are meeting. "It is crucial that you do thorough research on your prospective employer - both the company and person, if possible - ahead of the interview," advises Quenet-Meintjes. This will ensure that you are able to hold an intelligent discussion about the company during your interview, and will help you to assess what questions they may ask and what they may be looking for in a prospective employee. "You should also try to speak to others who are currently working for the company, or who have worked for it before, so that you can gain a better understanding of the company culture, management style and the duties your position will entail."

First impressions are vital. This is the image a prospective employer may carry with him/her forever, and may even set the tone of the interview. You want to make a good one if you are serious about clinching the position. "Dress appropriately and look neat and presentable. You should avoid bright colours and patterned clothes - try sticking to colours like grey, white and blue as these are more professional and show sophistication and maturity," suggests Quenet-Meintjes. She also recommends not wearing excessive jewellery, ensuring your hair and nails are clean and neat, and paying attention to your body language which sometimes speaks louder than words.

Don't forget your manners. "Greet your interviewer(s) by standing up and instigating a firm handshake with a warm smile. This will illustrate great professionalism as well as favourable etiquette," she says. One of the most important, and often a determining factor of the interview's outcome, is the use of cell phones. "Switch off your cell phone during the interview. It is the height of rudeness to answer a ringing phone during an interview, let alone have it ring aloud; it will mean you won't even be considered for the position." You should also be mindful of your language and avoid swearing, offensive jokes or bad-mouthing others.

Be punctual. The number one rule of any interview is to not be late. Always ensure that you leave home earlier than usual so that you are on time. Being punctual shows that you have respect for other people's time, and that you appreciate them making time to see you. Being late creates an immediate negative impression which may lead prospective employers to think that you are unreliable and tardy. If you are visiting a venue you aren't familiar with, give yourself an extra 15-30 minutes to allow for any unexpected traffic or in case you get lost.