1. Be natural, be yourself and don’t bull**it. Too many people try to second guess what the interviewer is looking for. It’s impossible to know if they are looking for someone who is louder than you or quieter. So there’s no point in trying to act like somebody else. If you fit the bill they’ll take you. There are people who are calm and quiet who are likely to do just as well as the more extroverted.

2. Listen very carefully to the question. If you didn’t understand it say something like: “I think what you're asking is…” and offer an answer in context. Some questions are not easy to understand. An answer that shows you have been listening is much better than saying: “Sorry, what?”, which can put the interviewer on the back foot and make you seem rude if you’re not careful.

3. Think before you speak. Even if you think you know what the interviewer is getting at, don’t be tempted to jump in during the question. Once the questioner has finished just pause for a moment before speaking – it makes you seem thoughtful.

4. Know when to shut up. The question only needs one answer, so don’t list off a load of ideas and then trail off. Remember to speak slowly and clearly. Never gabble.

5. Make eye contact and smile. Don’t grin like the Cheshire Cat, but you want to appear to be getting along with the interviewer. It should feel like a conversation not an interrogation.

6. Try and have an air of confidence, even if you’re not at all confident. Don’t fidget, sit still and upright. Think about people you know, who seem confident, and follow their lead. So many people shuffle around. You want to be confident, but not too cocky - don’t appear arrogant.

7. Dress smartly, don't wear trainers unless you're going for art or drama. The smart universities would prefer decent shoes. Don’t let your mother buy you a new shirt and tie, wear something you’re comfortable in. If she insists on buying something, wear it a few times first. Boys should wear something like casual trousers and a sweatshirt, probably not jeans, girls can wear trousers or a skirt and a neat top. If you are going for medical school – you should dress a bit smarter or wear a jacket.

8. Think about obvious questions they will ask, and prepare answers – “Why do you want to come here?”, “Why this subject?”, “Why do you deserve the place more than the next candidate?”.

9. Don’t make things up. If you tell them (or did in your application), that you love the work of Jane Austen and you’ve only read Pride and Prejudice, you’re up the creek without a paddle.

10. Be prepared to answer strange questions – don’t be defensive. You can lead people away from difficult questions without be uncooperative. If they do ask about Austen, start answering it and veer towards what you do know about.

Cathie Griffin and Sheila Taylor run Taylor and Griffin Training Consultants. taylorgriffin2@aol.com

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