Job interviews are your opportunity to consolidate your pitch and convince potential employers to appoint you.

Most final processes begin with a technical interview assessing your grasp of the role-specific aspects, usually by someone more experienced in the field. Even if conducted online, these are formal interviews: dress appropriately, make eye contact, and don't rely too much on notes.

If shortlisted, you may be asked to complete a psychometric test. These are usually done online, in your own time, before the final interview. Most candidates find them insightful and helpful in relation to their personal development. Psychometrics are sophisticated, and the best results come from positive engagement. Go with your instinct, answer truthfully, and don't over-think your responses.

Final panels often begin with a number of exercises and sessions with stakeholders. These reflect a typical day-in-the-role you've applied for and aren't designed to catch you out. Make sure you understand each session's format and the expectations of candidates. Ensure you keep to time and that you take a leadership role if invited to do so.

You may come across other candidates at this stage, possibly sharing the same ‘green room'. Always be polite and professional, don't gossip, and don't be nosey.

The last stage is a formal Q&A with the appointment panel to explore your understanding of the context, motivation, experience/knowledge, leadership experience/style, approach to change, future aspirations, ability to innovate, handling conflicting priorities, working with members, etc.

If you use PowerPoint, keep slides simple, clear and as few as possible. Good ideas beat whizzy graphics every time. If you use a handout, make sure you choose the right time to give it out: you want to ensure your audience is focusing on you and does not get distracted or start reading ahead.

Finally, always have one or two questions to hand, but if they've been answered during the session, leave them with a glowing summary of what you can bring.

Dawn Faulkner is a partner at Faerfield

This article is sponsored content for The MJ