Top 5 - Job interview songs (Christmas special)

Top 5 - Job interview songs (Christmas special) by Michael Cheary Christmas: time for gifts, goodwill and… interviews?While some businesses might be winding down for the festive break, certain recruiters see the Christmas period as the perfect opportunity to get their staff sorted for the New Year. To help keep you focussed on the big day, we’ve put together our definitive list of the best seasonal songs to include on your pre-interview playlist.Because let’s face it, the best way to spread Christmas (interview) cheer really is singing loud for all to hear:5. Stop the Cavalry  Jona LewieSo, we admit that a song about the perils and loneliness of war doesn’t have many obvious jobseeking parallels, but stay with us on this.After all, aren’t job interviews like little wars, in their own way?* Perhaps that’s the hidden metaphor Jona Lewie was going for. No? Fine.Ok, if you completely disregard the majority of the lyrics (sans the cavalry part), it still works beautifully as a rallying call. If we’re honest, we m ostly like the ‘dub a dub a dum dum’ part.4. Wonderful Christmastime  Paul McCartneyNo list of Christmas songs would be complete if it didn’t feature at least one ex-Beatle.Mr. McCartney’s lyrics promote a festive mood and good spirits, which (hopefully) your interviewer will have in spades, as well as championing an excellent work ethic in its production. In fact, McCartney not only penned the song, but he also played every instrument on it, ensuring he’s the sole beneficiary of the royalties (in excess of £10 million).Not bad for a day’s work…3. In Dulce Jublio  Mike OldfieldAdvantages: Jubilant, sounds classy, recorders are cool.Disadvantages: No words, not contemporary, performed by a man with a questionable haircut.2. All I Want For Christmas is You  Mariah CareyThe perennial Christmas party sing-a-long staple.It’s damn near impossible not to feel inspired after listening to this. After all, if Mariah Carey can get her love life sorted for Christmas, surely you’ll be able to make it through one little interview.However, to avoid awkward situations, always ensure this is not the last song you listen to before you go in. Subconsciously singing to a recruiter that you want them for your own may not help your chances as much as you might think.1. Do They Know It’s Christmas? Band Aid‘It’s Christmastime, there’s no need to be afraid…’ From the very first line, this one is an absolute classic. And, no matter which version you choose to listen to, the upbeat melody and thoughtful lyrics really help put things in perspective when confronting your pre-interview panic.For extra inspiration, we recommend the 2004 incarnation: ‘Spare a thought this yuletide for the deprived. If the table was turned would you survive?’ Good question Dizzy Rascal. Good question.Honourable mentions: Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas (Frank Sinatra), Stay Another Day (East 17), Merry Christmas Everyone (Shakin’ Stevens), Fairytale of New York (The Pogues feat. Kirsty McCall N.B. may only be applicable if your interview is in New York).Songs to avoid: Driving Home For Christmas (Chris Rea), Blue Christmas (Elvis Pressley), Lonely This Christmas (Mud), The Little Boy That Santa Claus Forgot (Nat King Cole), That One By The Cheeky Girls. Think theres any weve missed? Tell us below, or alternatively, share them with us on twitter @reedcouk.