Be prepared for your interview:

It seems obvious, but be on time. Arriving late says; “I'm not interested enough to be punctual.” After all, what do you think of people who keep you waiting?

Interviewers will frequently ask what you know about their company. Your answer will be their first indication of your interest in them. So…have an intelligent answer ready. Go to their website and learn as much as you can about what they do.

Dress like you mean business. The client company may have a casual dress code but you don't work there yet. Professional dress indicates that you take this opportunity seriously. Being well groomed not only enhances that first impression, it also gives you a psychological boost – when you look and feel good, you present well.

Your qualifications may get you the interview but it's your attitude that will get you the job. Clients want a candidate who is a] passionate about his/her chosen profession and b], sincerely interested in what they do. If you are neither of those two, it won't matter how qualified you are.

Bring a hard copy of your resume and portfolio and as much as possible, arrange your portfolio so the first thing a client sees are projects that specifically relate to their areas of activity.

A job interview is a conversation, not an interrogation. You need to know if this is the kind of company that suits your style and interests and the only way to find out is to ask questions. Ask questions about the specific role for which you are being interviewed. Ask about their corporate culture and/or values. Ask whatever questions you need to ask to decide if this is the right position, the right company for you.

Never, ever initiate discussion about salary at a first interview. If the client decides you are the right candidate for them, they'll bring up the subject of compensation at the 2nd or 3rd interview.

Clients rarely make a hiring decision based on one interview. Neither should you. Typically the hiring process will entail two, often three interviews before a decision is made. Just as the client is assessing you, take time to carefully assess them as well. It'll be better for your career and your stress levels to decline an offer upfront rather than accept it hastily and then realize three months later you've made a big mistake.

Before you leave the interview, thank the client for their time and interest in you. Next, contact Talentbird by email or phone to discuss your thoughts on the interview. Talentbird will then contact the client to enquire about the next steps.

You may also wish to send a brief email to the client expressing your thanks for the interview and re-affirming your interest in the position.