So you got a call back from the employer. Congratulations! To help you prepare for the big day, Amanda Walker, Academy Manager at Oldham College, provides 11 easy steps you can take right now to really shine at an interview:

1. Plan early

There’s a lot to plan for, so don’t leave it too late. Think about what questions they will ask, what they’re looking for and what evidence you can offer to show you’re ‘The One’. Also make notes of any questions you may want to ask the employer. If you have a portfolio or file of visual examples of your work you have completed during a course, take this with you as it is a good talking point to discuss what you have done previously.

2. Research online

The internet is a great way to find information on your prospective employer. Do lots of research on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn, so you can show them you’ve taken a real interest in them online.  Potential employers often check out candidates’ Facebook pages prior or after interview. Make sure there is nothing on there you wouldn’t be happy for them to see.

3. Know your CV

A lot of employers tell us about candidates who don’t seem to know their own CV. Maybe that’s because interviews can be very demanding – sometimes your mind can go blank. Make sure all your personal information is current and up to date and know your CV back to front to be prepared!

4. Prepare, then rest!

Take it easy the night before the interview. Get everything ready for the interview early, then take a bath, watch some TV or play with the cat. But avoid the pub – have an early night instead.

5. Dress the part

First impressions are important, so you’ll want to look the part from the moment you walk into the interview. Check what’s appropriate and choose something that will help you fit in. If in doubt, look smart – but don’t completely hide your personality!

6. Arrive early

“Sorry I’m late” is the worst way to start an interview. So give yourself plenty of time, get there early, and gather your thoughts. It‘ll help you feel more confident and in control. If you have never been to the area before, do a trial run to ensure you know where you are going and how long it will take to get there.

7. Be keen, but be yourself

Look bright and attentive, make eye contact and show enthusiasm, but don’t overdo it – that could look a bit strange. You don’t want to hide the real you - look interested, calm, and be natural.

8. Stay classy

Speaking clearly and confidently leaves a great impression, so don’t be afraid to take your time before you answer the question. Take a sip of water, get your thoughts in order and make your best answer. Always try to sound professional, even in ‘informal’ interviews.

9. If in doubt, tell the truth

Avoid the temptation to exaggerate a bit in interviews. It’s always good to tell your story in the best way possible, but don’t lie. A good interviewer will likely catch you out!

10. Stay positive!

Interviewers may ask horrible questions or try to be intimidating.  But no matter how tough the question, play your best hand. You don’t need to be defensive – positive always beats negative in an interview.

11. Shine!

Interviews are a great opportunity to meet new people and talk about yourself. You’re awesome, now show it! So be positive, be attentive and sell yourself. If you follow these eleven steps then you can’t help but shine in any interview. Now go get that job!

For more jobseeking hints and tips, go to http://dailyjobseeker.tumblr.com/