I will focus on the interview itself but be aware that some organisations may expect one or more of the following a presentation, group exercise, tests and in tray exercise. It is usual for an organisation to mention what to expect in your letter requesting you to attend an interview.

At the start of the interview the interviewer will normally run though an outline of what you can expect from the process. Approximate length, who will be involved in asking questions. If there will be someone taking notes etc. Any good interviewer will try to relax you.

They will often tell you about the organisation, what it does, an outline of the role you are applying for etc. This is a good time to listen as you may pick up some useful information that will tell you what they are looking for. It may pose a question that you can ask later.

Often the questioning starts at your application form/CV. To relax you they may ask about your hobbies. They will have reviewed your application and CV to identify any issues and may well probe such areas. Try to anticipate any such questions to have a positive answer prepared.

Next will follow a series of questions which should be the same for each candidate to ensure fairness. This is your opportunity to draw upon any relevant experience you have and demonstrate the skills and behaviours the employer is looking for.

After the questioning you are likely to be given the opportunity to ask your own questions. Don't feel obliged to ask a question. Have some questions prepared but if this has been answered by the interviewer during the interview simply let them know.

At the close the interviewer/s will explain the process that follows and when you are likely to hear from them. After you have left they will generally score your interview to see if you have been successful.

If they are interviewing several candidates they may well have a meeting once all interviews have finished to discuss the applicants referring back to their interview notes and scores.

Whilst this gives you an idea of what to expect, some words of caution - always expect the unexpected because all organisations large and small have different processes.

Next issue we will look at the importance of body language at the interview.

If you are keen to improve your interview technique then why not consider one of my new interview skills workshops starting in August 2006 - click here for more information and details of my early booking discount.

Variety and interest - the more variety you have in your job the better and more interesting it will be. Hence you are more likely to be happier in your work. A happy person is proven to be more productive and hence a top performer.

Gets you noticed - when you volunteer for more responsibilities your manager will see you in a positive light and can often raise your profile within a team, across teams, departments and organisation depending on what task it is. However beware if you take on an extra task ensure you perform well doing it remember you want to get noticed for the right reasons!

Likely to get more opportunities - manager's are looking for that staff to rely on. If you have successfully taken on additional responsibilities in the past you are likely to be ahead of the queue when more tasks come along.

Shows your intent - by volunteering and taking on more you are not just saying you are a great team member you are demonstrating it to. Remember to keep good brief records of your learning and activity to discuss when you review your performance with your manager.

Improves your skills - by taking on activities outside of your normal role you will have an opportunity to develop new skills. This is how people move up the career ladder. Don't be afraid to ask for the right level of training/coaching and support at the outset to ensure you do a great job.

Improves your confidence - the more things you do over time the more your confidence improves. Don't be afraid to stretch yourself and work slightly outside of your comfort zone. Success breeds success, by trying new things, learning and growing you build your confidence to try more new things.

What are your big issues/problems in work - email me here and I will try to cover common problems in future issues of this Ezine.

If you want to make the most out of your career - click here

Next week I will discuss when is the right time to take on more responsibility.

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If you have a question about any of this weeks topics please email me here.

I will email you directly in answer to your question unless I get a number of similar questions. In this case I cover the topic in a future issue.

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