Department of Justice and Constitutional Development Vacancies - Circular 38 of 2014

The Department of Justice is an equal opportunity employer. In the filling of vacant posts the objectives of section 195 (1) (i) of the Constitution of South Africa, 1996 (Act No: 108 of 1996), the Employment Equity imperatives as defined by the Employment Equity Act, 1998 (Act No: 55 of 1998) and relevant Human Resources policies of the Department will be taken into consideration

NOTE: Interested applicants may visit the following website: www.justice.gov.za or www.dpsa.gov.za to view the full job specification of the above positions.

Applications must be submitted on Form Z83, obtainable from any Public Service Department or on the internet at www.gov.za. A Z83 & CV must be accompanied by certified copies of qualifications and identity document. A driver’s license must be attached if indicated as a requirement. A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Applications that do not comply with the above mentioned requirements will not be considered. Shortlisted candidates will be subjected to a personnel vetting process. Correspondence will be limited to short-listed candidates only. If you do not hear from us within 3 months of this advertisement, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful. The department reserves the right not to fill these positions. The department reserves the right not to fill these positions. Women and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply and preference will be given to them.


FAMILY ADVOCATE 4 POSTS
REF NO: 14/112/ FS; CENTRE: OFFICE OF THE FAMILY ADVOCATE: WELKOM (1 POST)
REF NO: 133 /14/FA/WC; CENTRE: OFFICE OF THE FAMILY ADVOCATE, CAPE TOWN (1 POST)
REF NO: NC/70/13 FAMILY ADVOCATE LP7-LP8, (2 POSTS)
(These posts are re- advertisements; candidates who previously applied are encouraged to re-apply)
SALARY: R554 025–R596 838 per annum (Salary will be in accordance with the OSD determination). The successful candidates will be required to sign a performance agreement
CENTRE: Office of the Family Advocate: Upington

REQUIREMENTS: An LLB Degree or recognized four years Legal qualification. At least five (5) years appropriate post qualification/litigation experience. Admitted as an Advocate or Attorney of the High Court; The right of appearance in the High Court of South Africa; A Valid driver’s licence. Skills and Competencies: Good communication skills (both verbally and in writing); Research, investigation, evaluation and report writing skills with attention to detail and Diversity, Dispute and Conflict Resolution Skills.

DUTIES: Key Performance Areas: Execute the mandate of the Office of the Family Advocate. Perform all functions and duties of the Senior Family Advocate in accordance with relevant legislation. Endorse Settlement Agreements or commenting thereon; Enquiries to ascertain the best interest of the minor child by means of ADR procedures and evaluation. Attend to Hague matters when delegated to do so; Attend to relevant Circuit Courts within the Free State Province.

ENQUIRIES: Free State: Ms. NN Sithole (051) 407 1800.
Cape Town: Advocate G Parker at Tel: (021) 426 1216
Northern Cape: Adv. P. Molokwane (053) 833 1063
APPLICATIONS: FREE STATE: Please direct your application to: The Regional Head, Private BagX20578, Bloemfontein, 9300, or hands deliver at 53 Colonial Building, Charlotte Maxeke Street, Bloemfontein, 9301
CAPE TOWN: Quoting the relevant reference number, direct your application to: The Regional Head, Department of Justice, Private Bag X9171, Cape Town, 8000 OR Physical Address: Mezzanine Floor, Plein Park Building, Plein Street, Cape Town FOR ATTENTION: Mr N Luddy
KIMBERLEY: Quoting the relevant reference number, direct your application to: Postal address: The Regional Head: Justice and Constitutional Development, Private Bag X6106, Kimberley, 8300. OR hand delivers at the New Public Buildings, (Magistrates Court) of Knight and Stead Streets, 7th floor, Kimberley, 8301. Email or faxed applications will not be considered.

CLOSING DATE: 13 October 2014

NOTE: Applicants are required to attach service certificates to determine salary in accordance to experience. Separate applications must be made for each center quoting the relevant reference number


DEPUTY DIRECTOR: TECHNOLOGY ARCHITECTURE REF NO: 14/265/ISM
(Three Year Contract Appointment)
SALARY: R532 278–R627 000 per annum, The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.
CENTRE: National Office (Pretoria)

REQUIREMENTS: A National Diploma/Degree in Information Systems/Technology/Computer Science or equivalent (NQF 6); 3 years experience in Information Systems Environment; Knowledge of TOGAF, ITC Strategy and International standards; Knowledge and application of relevant legislation. Skills and Competencies: Communication skills (verbal and written); Customer service orientated; Ability to work under pressure; Interpersonal and leadership.

DUTIES: Key Performance Areas: Develop and evaluate technical and network architecture and standards; Conduct research on market trends and potential impact of technical architecture on the Department; Manage workflow and quality of outputs; Provide inputs in development of strategies; Assist with drafting of responses on audit findings; Assist with the formulation of relevant departmental policies.

ENQUIRIES: Ms E. Sebelebele (012) 315 – 8662
APPLICATIONS: Quoting the relevant reference number, direct your application to: Postal Address: Human Resource: Department Justice and Development; Private Bag X81, Pretoria, 0001.OR Physical Address: Application Box, First Floor, Reception, East Tower, Momentum Building, 329 Pretorius Building, Pretoria, 0001.

CLOSING DATE: 13 October 2014

NOTE: People with disabilities are encouraged to apply


AREA COURT MANAGER REF NO: NC/26/13
(This post is a re- advertisement; candidates who previously applied are encouraged to re-apply)
SALARY: R532 278–R627 000 per annum (All inclusive remuneration package). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.
CENTRE: Magistrate Office Springbok

REQUIREMENTS: An appropriate three (3) year Bachelor’s Degree / National Higher Diploma in Public Administration / Management; Six (6) years relevant experience of which three years should be at management level; Knowledge of the Financial Management Act (PFMA), Departmental Financial Instructions (DFI); An understanding of the Departments systems (JDAS, JMIS, ICMS, JYP); A valid driver’s license. Skills and Competencies: Computer literacy (MS Office, Excel, PowerPoint); Excellent communication skills (written and verbal); Strong leadership skills; Strategic capabilities; Problem solving skills; Data Analysis Skills; Ability to work under pressure and travel; Good Interpersonal skills.

DUTIES: Key Performance Areas: Co-ordinate and manage financial and human resources of offices within the cluster; Ensure sound strategic and business planning processes; Manage the facilities, physical resources, information and communication related to courts within the cluster; Implement the Departmental policies in courts within the cluster; Compile and analyse court statistics to show performance and trends; Provide case tracking services to the judiciary and prosecuting authority; Compile annual performance and statutory reports to the relevant users; Develop and implement customer service improvement strategies; Facilitate strategic projects intended to improve court management; Communicate and relate with internal and external stakeholders; Leadership and management of the transformation of the office.

ENQUIRIES: Ms C. Melamane (053) 839 0000
APPLICATIONS: Quoting the relevant reference number, direct your application to: Postal address: The Regional Head: Justice and Constitutional Development, Private Bag X6106, Kimberley, 8300. OR hand delivers at the New Public Buildings, (Magistrates Court) of Knight and Stead Streets, 7th floor, Kimberley, 8301. Email or faxed applications will not be considered.

CLOSING DATE: 13 October 2014


COURT MANAGER 2 POSTS REF NO: 2014/78/MP
SALARY: R270 804 – R327 126 per annum. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.
CENTRE: Moutse & Piet Retief

REQUIREMENTS: A Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration/Management and/or National Diploma in Service Management (NQF level 5) plus a module on Case Flow Management or equivalent qualification; Three years’ managerial or supervisory experience; A valid drivers’ license; The following will serve as strong recommendations:- Knowledge of and experience in office and district administration; Knowledge of Financial Management and the PFMA. Skills and Competencies: Strong leadership and management capabilities; Computer literacy; Strategic capabilities; Good communication (verbal and written).

DUTIES: Key Performance Areas: Co-ordinate and manage the financial and human resources of the office; Coordinate and manage risk and security in the court; Manage the strategic and business planning processes; Manage the facility, physical resources, information and communication related to courts; Implement the departmental policies at the courts; Compile and analyse court statistics to show performance and trends; Support case flow management at the court; Compile annual performance and statutory reports to the relevant users; Develop and implement customer service improvement strategies; Lead and manage the transformation of the office; Manage the projects intended to improve court management; Manage the communication and relations with the internal and external stakeholders; Manage service level agreements.

ENQUIRIES: Mr MH Hlophe (013) 753 9300/19
APPLICATIONS: Quoting the relevant reference number, direct your application to: The Regional Head, Private Bag X11249, Nelspruit, 1200 OR Physical address: 24 Brown Street, Nedbank Centre, 4th floor Nelspruit.

CLOSING DATE: 13 October 2014

NOTE: Women and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.


LAW RESEARCHER REF NO: 14/82/KZN
SALARY: R270 804 – R314 271 per annum. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.
CENTRE: KZN High Court, Pietermaritzburg

REQUIREMENTS: An appropriate four year legal degree or equivalent qualification; A minimum of (3) Three years experience in the legal environment; Valid driver’s license; LLM will be an added advantage. Skills and Competencies: Computer Literacy; Report writing skills; Research and analytical skills; Project management, including planning and organizing ability; Ability to integrate knowledge from diverse sources; Ability to work under pressure; Accuracy and attention to detail.

DUTIES: Key Performance Areas: Conduct legal research as may be required from time to time by the courts; Perform quasi-judicial functions; Monitoring and bringing to the attention of judiciary new developments in law and jurisprudence; Performing any court - related work requested to improve the efficiency of the courts; Conduct all research as required by the Judge President’s Office;

ENQUIRIES: Mrs T.O. Majola (031) 3723000
APPLICATIONS: Quoting the relevant reference number, direct your application to: the Regional Head, Private Bag X54372, Durban, 4000 or physical address: Recruitment, First Floor, 2 Devonshire Place, Durban

CLOSING DATE: 13 October 2014


ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (NOC) REF NO: 2014/89 /MP
SALARY: R270 804 – R318 984 per annum. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.
CENTRE: Regional Office, Mpumalanga

REQUIREMENTS: Three years relevant tertiary qualification in IT Technology and/or matric with IT Certificate coupled with minimum of three years relevant IT experience with training/project management modules; Experience in data capturing is essential; Proven knowledge of data capturing and reporting; The following will serve as an advantage: Good command of good English is required; Willingness to work outside official hours and to travel from time to time; Ability to arrange and systemize information. Skills and Competencies: Excellent knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, Power Point, Access, Project etc.), internet and e-mail capable; Communication skills (verbal and written); Problem solving and decision making skills; Analytical, accuracy and attention to detail; Confidentiality and accountability; Assertiveness and confidence to interact at all levels; and Ability to cope under pressure.

DUTIES: Key Performance Areas: Co-ordinate process of data collection within the Regional Office and reporting thereof to Regional Head and National Operations Centre respectively; Manage storage of data and information for the Region; Receive incoming statistical source documents from all offices in the Region; Capture available data from source documents as required or collate into one report for Regional Office; Keep record of all correspondence regarding data received, captured and stored; Follow up on source documents not received and enter incoming source documents in a register; Maintain electronic data files; Perform related administrative duties as requested from time to time.

ENQUIRIES: Mr MH Hlophe 013-753 9300/107
APPLICATIONS: Quoting the relevant reference number, direct your application to: The Regional Head, Private Bag X11249, Nelspruit, 1200 OR Physical address: 24 Brown Street, Ned bank Centre, 4th floor Nelspruit.

CLOSING DATE: 13 October 2014

NOTE: Women and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.


ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: FAMILY ADVOCATE REF NO: 2014/92/MP
SALARY: R270 804 – R318 984 per annum. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.
CENTRE: Family Advocate, Nelspruit

REQUIREMENTS: A Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Administration or equivalent qualification; 3 years experience in management; Knowledge of Public Service, legislation and prescripts; Knowledge of Public finance Management Act, Treasury regulations and Departmental Financial Instructions; Basic knowledge of the core functions of the office of the Family Advocate; A valid driver’s license. Skills and Competencies: Computer literacy (Ms Office); Communication (written and verbal) skills; Financial Management; Leadership and interpersonal; Problem solving and decision making; Project management; Ability to interpret and apply policy; Self-driven and Innovative.

DUTIES: Key Performance Areas: Manage and supervise administrative staff in the office of the Principal Family Advocate/ in the offices of the Family Advocate within the specified region; Manage financial, assets, procurement and budget functions of the office; Prepare all monthly statistical and financial reports; Ensure effective internal control regarding financial and administrative risk in the offices; Direct and manage projects aimed at improving the administrative efficiency of the office.

ENQUIRIES: Mr MH Hlophe (013)-753 9300 /07
APPLICATIONS: Quoting the relevant reference number, direct your application to: The Regional Head, Private Bag X11249, Nelspruit, 1200 OR Physical address: Application Box, Fourth Floor, Reception, 24 Brown Street, Ned bank Centre, Nelspruit.

CLOSING DATE: 13 October 2014

NOTE: Women and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.


LEGAL ADMINISTRATION OFFICER (MR-3 – MR-5)) REF NO: 56/14/NC
(Contract post ending 31 March 2015
SALARY: R183 126 – R662 397 per annum. (Salary will be in accordance with determined in accordance with the experience as outlined in terms of the Occupational Specific Dispensation for legally qualified personnel) The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

CENTRE: Regional Office, Kimberley (This post is a re- advertisement; candidates who previously applied are encouraged to re-apply). (Salary will be in accordance with OSD determination). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement

REQUIREMENTS: LLB or four year recognize legal qualification; At least 2 years appropriate post qualification legal experience; Sound knowledge of the South African legal system, legal practice and related spheres with specific reference to family law and related litigation; Knowledge of criminal procedure and practice, court rules (Constitutional, Supreme Court of Appeal, High, Labour, Equality and Magistrate Courts); A valid code EB driver’s license; Skills and Competencies: Computer literacy; Excellent Communication (verbal and written); Good interpersonal and intercultural relations; Problem solving and analytical; Accuracy and attention to detail; Basic project management

DUTIES: Key Performance Areas: Draft legal documents and give legal advice to the Department and other organs of the State; Provide support services to the courts regarding quasi-judicial functions; Respond to petitions, representations and complaints from civil society and other government departments; Liaise with other departments, DPP, and communities on programmes around crime prevention; Prepare memoranda for the appointment of Commissioners of Oath and Appraisers; Recover loss and (of) damage to State property; Determine Legal Liability and oversee the smooth functioning of dedicated courts in the region; Facilitate implementation of relevant legislation including the Victims Charter and the Restorative Justice National policy Framework; Initiate, plan, implement and conduct community awareness campaigns on legislations administered by the Department.

ENQUIRIES: Mr. J. Tope (053) 839 0000 ext 2060
APPLICATIONS: Quoting the relevant reference number, direct your application to: Postal address: The Regional Head: Justice and Constitutional Development, Private Bag X6106, Kimberley, 8300. OR hand delivers at the New Public Buildings, (Magistrates Court) of Knight and Stead Streets, 7th floor, Kimberley, 8301. Email or faxed applications will not be considered.

CLOSING DATE: 13 October 2014

NOTE: Shortlisted candidates may be required to complete a questionnaire in order to ascertain their compliance with the above post requirements Women and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.


SOCIAL WORKER / FAMILY COUNSELOR GRADE 1-3 REF NO: 14/ 111 /FS
SALARY: R183 495 – R320 298 per annum. (Salary will be in accordance with the OSD determination) The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.
CENTRE: Office of the Family Advocate: Bloemfontein

REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor Degree in Social Work; Registration with the South African Council for Social Services Professions (SACSSP); Appropriate experience in Social Work after registration with the SACSSP; Knowledge and experience in Mediations; Knowledge and applications of Family Law, including inter alia Mediation in certain Divorce Matters Act, Maintenance Act and Domestic Violence Act including Hague Convention on International Child Abduction; A valid driver’s license. Skills and Competencies: Computer Literacy (MS Office). Good communication skills (verbal and written); Investigation and Report writing skills; Attention to detail; Diversity and Conflict Management.

DUTIES: Key Performance Areas: Conduct mediation and or investigations as part of a multi-disciplinary team in custody, access, guardianship, child abduction and related Family Law disputes. Evaluate information and compile forensic court reports and make recommendations regarding the best interest of children in Family Law disputes; Travel to town townships and rural areas to conduct investigations and interview parties / source references in Family Law disputes. Act as expert witness for the Family Advocate in Court. Network and conduct awareness campaigns regarding the functions and role of the Office of the Family Advocate. Report on Performance to the Head of Office.

ENQUIRIES: Ms N Sithole (051) 407 1800
APPLICATIONS: Please direct your applications to: The Regional Head, Private Bag X 578, Bloemfontein, 9300 or hand delivered 53 Colonial Building, Charlotte Maxeke Street, Bloemfontein, 9301

CLOSING DATE: 13 October 2014

NOTE: Applicants are required to attach service certificates to determine salary in accordance to experience.


ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER: SECURITY AND FACILITIES ADMINISTRATION REF NO: 2014/209/GP
Re-Advertisement Candidates who previously applied need to re-apply as previous applications will not be considered.
SALARY: R227 802–R268 338 per annum. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.
CENTRE: Johannesburg Cluster

REQUIREMENTS: Three year National Diploma Public Administration/ Public Management or Three year National Diploma in Security & Risk Management At least 2 years supervisory/ managerial experience in Security Environment; A valid driver’s license (Code B). The following will be an added advantage: PSIRA Grade A certificate; Certificate in Fire Fighting; First Aid Certificate; Safety Certificate (SAMTRAC); SSA Manager Course. Skills and Competencies: Computer literacy: Ms word, Excel Spread Sheets, Power Point Presentation, Internet and Intranet, Email, Investigation and Analytical skills; Report writing and presentation skills; Good interpersonal relations; Problem solving skills and attention to detail.

DUTIES: Assist in the development and designing of Security and Facilities operational plan for the cluster; Establish partnership relationships with (Court Managers, NIA, SAPS, Correctional Services, Judiciary and Prosecution; Encourage a culture of security awareness in the working environment, especially the courthouse; Participate in the formulation of provincial strategy and policies that are associated to risk management and occupational health and safety; Assist and influence decisions in the day to day operations of security services, Assist Area Court Managers and Court Managers with security vetting of personnel; Assist with monthly meetings with service providers regarding service level agreements (contract management/ guarding services and cash in transit); Assist with the evaluation of available information regarding physical and information security for the implementation of increased services; Participate in process to ensure compliance with directives and prescripts as outlined in the Control of Access to Public Premises and Vehicles Act, 1985, Health and Safety Act, the MISS and the Provincial Strategy and Policy; Ensure that security threat and risk assessments are conducted in the cluster; Conduct security inspections and awareness programs; Ensure a safe and healthy working environment at courts in terms of the OHS/ SHEQ; Provide budget inputs for security operations, Coordinate Facilities Management and related functions within the Cluster; Attending of site meetings and preparation of reports on deviations and challenges for consideration by Senior Management Conduct needs assessment on Facilities within the Cluster and prepare reports for consideration by Senior Management Must be prepared to travel and work long irregular hours.

ENQUIRIES: Ms R Moabelo (011) 332 9000
APPLICATIONS: Quoting the relevant reference number, direct your application to: The Regional Head, Private Bag X6, JOHANNESBURG, 2000.

CLOSING DATE: 13 October 2014


LABOUR RELATIONS OFFICER REF NO: 14/87 /FS
SALARY: R227 802–R268 338 per annum. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.
CENTRE: Regional Office, Bloemfontein

REQUIREMENTS: LLB Degree or three years Bachelor Degree / National Diploma in Labour Relations/ Public Administration/ Management/Human Resource qualification. At least two to five years experience in Labour Relations environment. Practical experience in Conciliation and Arbitration cases will serve as an added advantage. A valid driver’s license. Ability to work under pressure. Skills and Competencies: Computer Literate (MS Office: Word, Excel and Power Point). Proven managerial experience, verbal and written Communication skills as well as ability to maintain good interpersonal relations. Problem solving skills and analytic thinking.

DUTIES: Key Performance Areas: Promote sound labour relations in the Department. Supervise the activities of subordinates entrusted with inter alia, the co-ordination and administration of Grievances, Disciplinary Hearings and Labour Relations Circulars. Define and introduce Labour Relations Procedures according to the provisions of the Labour Relations Act, most particularly, its application in the Public Service in terms of Grievances and Disciplinary hearings. Handle dispute resolutions for the GPSSBC, PSCBC, CCMA, Conciliation, Arbitration and Dismissal Disputes; Consult with the State Attorney on more complex matters; Play an active role in the management of strike; Handle correspondence and memoranda of a more complex nature and compile reports for management; Provide training on Labour Related Matters.

ENQUIRIES: Ms N Sithole (051) 407 1800
APPLICATIONS: Please direct your application to: The Regional Head, Private Bag X20578, Bloemfontein, 9300, or hand deliver at 53 colonial Building, Charlotte Maxeke Street, Bloemfontein, 9300.

CLOSING DATE: 13 October 2014


ESTATE CONTROLLER EC1 2 POSTS
REF NO: 14/267/MAS BLOEMFONTEIN
REF NO: 14/273/MAS POLOKWANE
SALARY: R141 339 per annum. (Salary will be in accordance with OSD determination).
The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement
CENTRE: Master of the High Court: Bloemfontein (01) and Polokwane (01)

REQUIREMENTS: An LLB degree or recognized four year legal qualification. Skills and Competencies: Legal research and drafting; Case flow management; Estate duties; Trust; Dispute resolution; Communication skills (verbal and written); Attention to detail; Customer focus; Computer literacy.

DUTIES: Key Performance Areas: Administer deceased- and insolvent estates, Curatorships, rusts and all aspects related to the administration thereof; Render professional service to clients in line with the service level agreements; Identify and report opportunities or problems that may impact on service level agreements or effectiveness of operations to the Assistant Master; Provide effective people management; Prepare all monthly management and court reports in the prescribed formats.

ENQUIRIES: Mr C Msiza (012) 315 4754 or Mr S Maeko (012) 315 1996
APPLICATIONS: Quoting the relevant reference number, direct your application to: Postal address: The Human Resources: Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, Private Bag X81, Pretoria, 0001.OR Physical address: Application Box, First Floor Reception, East Tower, Momentum Building, 329 Pretorius Street, Pretoria.

CLOSING DATE: 13 October 2014

NOTE: Women and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Separate applications must be made for each center quoting the relevant reference number.



Interview Hints and Tips

Arrive on time for the interview. Plan your trip and leave early if you have to or if you are unfamiliar with the area. Give yourself enough time to find the building as well as parking. You also need keep your diary open after the interview. Your interview might be running longer than anticipated.

Remember to take a few extra copies of your CV with you. One copy is for you should you have to refresh your memory. The other copies are for the interviewer and anyone else sitting in on the interview. You only need to produce these if there is a need for them.

Be careful not to over- or under-dress for an interview. The golden rule is to look professional and smart even if everyone else at the company is wearing jeans. Speak to your employment agency for guidance with specific acompanies.

Women:
- More conservative outfit and coordinate all the colours
- Moderate shoes
- Limited jewellery
- Make sure your hairstyle is neat and hair clean
- Not too muck make-up and perfume
- Nails must be neat and clean

Men:
- Conservative suit with a white long sleeve shirt
- Conservative tie (no cartoon characters)
- Dark socks, professional shoes
- Limited jewellery
- Make sure your hairstyle is neat and hair clean
- Not too much aftershave
- Nails must be neat and clean
The interviewer will be judging the effect of your appearance on customers as well as staff. Your "look" must project the fact that you are the perfect '"fit" for that specific position and company.

Get rid of chewing gum and check your overall appearance before walking into the organisation's premises.

Switch your cellphone off once the interviewer knows that you have arrived for the interview - never, ever take a call during an interview. If there is a medical emergency in your family and your phone needs to be on then inform the interviewer and ask for permission to leave your phone on. In most cases the person will agree to it.

Remember to take a file with pen paper with you to the interview. This will assist you in making notes and to write down questions you might want to ask later.

The interview starts when the first question is asked. Right? Wrong. The interview starts the minute you arrive at the company and you will be under scrutiny by everyone who knows that interviews are being held. Be friendly with cleaning staff, secretaries and everyone else you encounter on your way to the interview. This will make you feel more positive as well as leave positive people in your wake. The last thing you need is for a staff member to mention how rude you were before the interview. Or for the secretaries to tell the manager that you had an attitude with them and you thought you were important!

Studies have shown that most interviewers make up their mind within the first few minutes. You therefore need to greet your interviewer by making comfortable eye contact, shaking hands firmly and introducing yourself in a confident manner.

Make a connection and build a relationship with the interviewer. Remember that they are already happy with your CV and now wants to check you out. Your attitude will be more important than most of your answers.

Only sit down when offered a chair.

If you are offered any coffee or tea you have three choices: Coffee, tea or nothing. Do not go and ask for something not offered - the organisation might not have it on the premises and the interviewer could feel embarrassed.

Keep an eye on your body language and avoid fidgeting, biting your nails, playing with your car keys, etc.