There are twelve types of information that immigration officers seek in a typical immigration interview. These include:

I. Passion for Canada and for working hard
Ask yourself, "Why am I interested in going to Canada?" Do you feel a passion for the country? If so, why? You should note the things that excite you to better help you in answering this question.

2. Motivation and Purpose
When attending an interview, officers will often ask why you want to move to Canada. You in turn must prove that you are interested in working for Canada and being productive.

3. Skills and Experience
Think of the skills that you have acquired and are key for attaining a job in your field. Think about your strengths.

4. Diligence and Professionalism
Describe your professional character, including thoroughness, diligence, and accountability. Show that you can sec things to a successful conclusion.

5. Creativity and Leadership
Show that you are creative, that you can take initiative, that you are resourceful and a leader. Use examples to show these attributes.

6. Compatibility with the Job
This entails discussing your specific qualifications for the job in ensuring that they meet the requirements for the job -

7. Personality and Cultural Compatibility
You must think of how you would fit in with Canadians. You must try and make the officer feel confident after you are granted status that there will not be any surprises as to your ability to succeed and contribute to Canadian life and the economy.

8. Work Ethic and Interpersonal Skills
This entails you telling the officer of the kind of boss, colleague, and employee you will be. You should talk about the management style and the interpersonal skills you use with peer groups, leaders and employees.

9. Problem-Solving Ability
Show how you can resolve problems that may have developed in the past.

10. Accomplishments
Think about your initiative and accomplishments, and show how you gave more than what was expected. Decide then what you can contribute to the country.

11. Career Aspirations
Focus your aspirations to the realities of your abilities and your potential. Strive high but do not be unrealistic.

12. Personal Interests and Hobbies
Look to see if your personal and career interests are compatible. The interviewer will also be interested in your community involvement.

Overcoming Nervousness

Displaying excessive nervousness can reflect poorly on you. Practice interviewing as much as you can. By practicing, it will help you answer effectively which can help increase your confidence.

Navigating the Dynamics of Interview Conversation

The interview should not be an interrogation- Rather, start by thanking the interviewer for the opportunity to talk with him or her and explain up front why you are qualified to immigrate and why you are interested in coming to Canada. Soon the interviewer will begin to ask you either structured or unstructured questions. In a structured interview the interviewer asks a prescribed set of questions seeking brief answers. In an unstructured interview the interviewer asks more open-ended questions so you can reveal more about yourself and your aspirations. Do not let a lough question throw you off base instead, try and keep the conversation flowing.

Turning tlie Tables

Here the officer may ask you whether you have any questions. Prepare a list of specific questions that you may want to ask. Your questions should show your research and your knowledge of the process and of Canada.

During the Immigration Interview

Once the interview commences you must interact effectively with the interviewer. Your attitude and personality during an interview is extremely important. During the interview, you should tiy and stress the following qualities in your choice of words, your tone of voice, and your body language: capability; confidence; dependability; easygoing manner; enthusiasm; flexibility; resourcefulness; and a strong work ethic.

Dressing for Success

Men should wear a clean, conservative, two-piece suit, a white shirt, and a silk tie. Women should dress in a professional-looking dress or suit with low-heeled shoes. Women should also avoid excess jewelry or makeup. You should also make sure that your clothes are clean, pressed, and well fitting and lhat your shoes are polished. Your hair should be neat and businesslike, and your nails should be clean and (rimmed. Avoid also using perfumes as the interviewer could be allergic.

Timing Is Everything

You should arrive for the interview more than ten minutes in advance. Therefore, allow yourself plenty of time to get ready for and to travel to your interview. If you have never been to the interview location, visit it the day before so you know exactly how to get there and how long it takes.

What to Have on Hand

If you have one, try and bring with you a brief case or a leather-bound folder. You should also bring several copies of your resume and a cover letter; a pen and a note pad; a list of professional references; and examples of your work, such as writing samples or clippings, photos, corporate brochures, etc..

Body Language

The first minutes of your interview are the most important If you make a bad impression from the start the interviewer may pay little attention to your performance during the rest of the interview. You should start off with a good impression as it will put a favorable glow in everything you say during the rest of the interview. An interviewer can pick up and react to the subtle signals of body language. Be confident and attentive and most of all just try and be yourself during the interview.