The 5 Cs of more Impactful Interviews

In tough times, interviews can be rarer, so when they do happen, make them really happen:
1. Get comfortable. Sit in the chair properly. Get rid of the coffee cup. Let go of tension.
2. Connect. Aim to get a conversation going, rather than just a Q and A.
3. Clarify your strengths to the interviewer. Know your USPs (unique selling points) and get them across.
4. Get closure. Ask what happens next. When will I hear more?
5. Chase. Seriously consider following-up if you don't hear by the promised date. There is a careful balance between annoying someone, appearing desperate and simply showing you really want the job. It may help to know that the second job I got was over and above a lot of very experienced professionals. I wa s staggered to get it and when I did start my boss told me that I got the job as I was the one person who really seemed to want it. It's a careful balance, but you know what that is.

Good luck! 5Cs. Make every C count.

Bonus: stacks of valuable job-hunting guidance from the career guru Rowan Manahan. I've been put on his 'hit-list'. The last person that happened to, I believe, was top blogger, astute commentator/observer and definite link-man Michael Wade. Michael now has to wear dark glasses at all times.