Most of your reading this will like dating but absolutely  hate interviewing for a job, however, in many cases there both alike and essentially boil down to the same things. You’re both selling yourself and trying to work out whether you and the company will be a good match.

We will have good times, share laughs, grow together and learn from each other? OR on the other hand will I end up broken-hearted, consoling myself with a night in of chocolate, tissues and trashy TV wondering where did it all go wrong?

Learning good interview techniques like dating advice will increase your chance of avoiding the “bad break up”.

Check out my 5 steps for success in your professional and personal life.

1. DRESS TO IMPRESS

Let’s be honest what company would employ anyone who came to an interview dressed in flip flops and a hoody whilst chewing gum. According to a poll by TheLadders, 37% of bosses say they have decided against hiring an applicant because of the way they dressed. You’d think that dressing appropriately was the most obvious and basic step in interview preparation but you’d be surprised at how many times I have seen and heard about candidates coming to interview in completely the wrong attire.

My advice would be liaise with your recruitment consultant or hiring manager and find out what format the interview will take and then choose your outfit to suit.

2.  DISCRETION IS KEY

On a first date you wouldn’t talk about how many times you’ve had your heart broken, made mistakes or got dumped and likewise during a job interview it’s certainly not the time to complain about past jobs.  Discretion is key! No matter how well you think the interview is going or how romantic the setting is, do not be lulled into a false sense of security - remember! You are being judged.

As a rule of thumb bad mouthing a past employer is never smart. Keep it simple, on track and controlled. Never mention or discuss anything you wouldn’t want published on the front page of The Sun.

3. PUT ON A HAPPY FACE.

Quite simply, be positive.  We’ve all made mistakes. But your first date-interview is a short window of time in which you get to express your many wonderful qualities and skills, not your drawbacks.  Stick to talking about the time you made a positive impression on someone, took the initiative, or performed above and beyond what was asked. Lean forward, smile, be engaged, and relax.  Practice your conversational skills.  You are a happy, positive person and Company X would be lucky to have you as a permanent fixture!

4. HONESTY IS THE BEST POLICY.

Admittedly I can’t stand football and know nothing about it but if was being interviewed by a company that loved football I wouldn’t pretend to be as knowledgeable as a FIFA official. Instead show your passions and enthusiasm for something you actually love. Ideally do your research and find some common ground.

Post interview be honest to yourself – if the company wants a sports mad football fanatic then perhaps this role isn’t right for you. Remember do your research into company culture.

5. Q&A

Everyone says ask questions on a date and the same can be said for a job interview. Use this time to find out everything you need to know about the company, the role and the expectations of you. What is the perfect hire for this position? What are the companies long term plans?