Do your homework in four key areas. Research the industry ,the company, the role and the professional interviewing you! (the internet is a great source of information). Look at the therapeutic areas the company focuses on and the pipeline of products to be launched in the future. Identify competitors - how are they doing? Try and speak to people already working for the company, get a feel for it's culture, try to see yourself as part of it.
Having done your homework let the interviewer know you have done it!. Use the information to tailor your skills and experience to the role. Prepare some questions based around the information you have picked up, interviewers don't like people attending for interview when they have shown no real interest in the company
Be organised. Take everything you need with you, including your CV. Read your CV through before the interview - you don't want any surprises such as questions about roles or achievments you forgot you included. Be prepared to dicuss in depth any claims you make on your CV.
Observe business etiquette. Be a few minutes early, smartly and conservatively dressed. Dark suits, light shirts or blouses, (all freshly cleaned). Remember , a good firm handshake and maintain eye contact, body language counts! Take a pad and pen so that you can take notes - many interviewers expect this. It all contributes to making a good first impression.
Show enthusiasm! This is your ideal job - let the interviewer know. At the end of the interview, ask what the next step in the process is, do they have any feedback for you etc.
Don't
Don't be tempted to criticise previous employers - it won't reflect well on you. You are attending for interview looking to the future - negative comments about people in your past might give the impression you can be a disruptive team member.
Dont ask inappropriate questions, such as "What is the salary?" at first interview, it gives the wrong impression of why you are there. Discussion around salary, benefits etc will take place if you are selected for a job offer.
Dont interrupt the interviewer - enthusiastic yes, rude no.
Dont forget your research - you won't get a job relying on luck or charm
