Here are a few pointers to help make the interview a success:

Do your homework

• Be ready to demonstrate your understanding of the company and its needs
• Read information like corporate literature, annual reports and websites
• If possible speak to employees about their experience
• Find out about products and services, company history and competitors
• Prepare a few intelligent questions about the company

Rehearse and rehearse again

• Practice with a friend or colleague
• Prepare a list of questions the interviewer is likely to ask and have specific answers ready, such as:

• Why did you choose us as an employer?
• What skills do you bring to our company from your last job?
• What do you expect a manager to do for you?
• How will you help our company achieve our objectives?
• Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
• Give me an example of a time when you were unable to resolve a customer service issue on your own and how you handled it

Dress the part

• Stay on the conservative side
• Pay attention to details like pressed clothing and properly-groomed fingernails

Arrive a little early

• Make sure you have time to relax and gather your thoughts before the interview
• Turn off all electronic devices before entering the room

Be yourself

• Relax and have confidence in yourself: It's perfectly normal to feel a little jittery
• Be frank, upfront and always positive

Prepare a short speech as backup

• Imagine that you have 40 seconds to say exactly why you deserve the job. Focus on what makes you different from other candidates and always keep this in mind during the interview.

Ask the right questions

• Formulate intelligent questions about the company based on your research
• Stick to topics that are relevant, such as training programs, possible career paths and working environment

State your expectations

• Ask the interviewer questions about how the company can also meet your needs. For example, does the employer offer training and development?
• Remain respectful and show flexibility, but don't waver from your key expectations of an employer

Bring the right materials

• Bring a copy of your resume and other background information
• Have a pen and paper on hand to write down specific information the interviewer gives you, but don't distract the interviewer by writing everything down

Follow up

• Show that you're interested in the job
• Ask how you can follow up after the interview
• Don't call the organization unless you feel it's appropriate
• Be patient: the recruiting process can be time-consuming