10 tips for the job interview

In order to score points in the interview, you should inform yourself in advance about the company's activities and mission statement as well as about the function of the decisive persons. If you can provide this information in the interview, you will prove to the personnel management that you have intensively studied the company as a potential employer.

You will usually be asked to tell something about yourself at the beginning of the interview. Prepare a short self-presentation. In addition to a description of yourself, you can highlight your practical experience and professional qualifications that match the position you are applying for.

Even though every interview is a little different, certain questions and topics are standard and can be trained. For example, you will often be asked why you applied to the company; what your strengths and weaknesses are; how you deal with stress; what you bring to the team. But don't memorise your answers. It is important to respond to the specific questions in the interview and to be honest and authentic.

When planning your journey to the interview, you should allow enough time. After all, traffic jams or train delays can happen quickly. It is a good idea to check in advance how to get from the station to the company by public transport or where you can park if you are arriving by car. If you still have time on site, you can take a short walk around the block.

You should have printed application documents with you on the day of the interview. Even if you don't need them, they will show that you have a structured approach and that you have prepared well for the interview. You should also bring a pad and pen to write down important points. This underlines your interest in the job and helps you to remember the details discussed later.

Your overall appearance is essential for a good first impression. Therefore, put your clothes together before the interview and dress appropriately for the industry. It is important that you feel comfortable and that your clothes send a message: "This interview is important to me. If you are unsure, dress more smartly than too casually.

Not only your outfit, but also your behaviour and demeanour influence the first impression. Greet the person interviewing you confidently and with a friendly smile. Treat everyone in the company as if they were your interview partner.

Accept drinks if they are offered at the beginning of the conversation. For difficult questions, you can grab a glass and have a drink while you think. This will give you a little longer to think of a good answer.

Participate actively in the interview and find a balance between speaking and listening attentively. Make sure you answer questions slowly and clearly. It is important to remember that body language also sends signals to those around you. Recruiters pay particular attention to gestures, facial expressions, eye contact and posture. It is best to sit up straight with an open posture and keep your hands on the table in front of you.

Applicants are expected to ask their own questions during the interview. Some questions you can think about in advance, others will come up during the interview. The first questions to be asked should be related to the job, the tasks and the responsibilities. Questions regarding salary or holidays can be discussed in a final interview.