Interview Techniques
Introduction
Interviews can be nerve-racking, and can take place in a variety of different styles.
Ensure that you are well prepared for your interview and practice beforehand with perhaps a family member or friend.
Find out as much as you can about the company and its products and the general principles of how they work.
The more you prepare, the calmer you will be, which will enhance your performance in the interview.
What Influences the interviewer
The more you know about how you will be perceived, the more you can prepare.
From a survey of recruiters the qualities which influenced them were, in priority order:
- The candidate's personality and how they presented themselves in the interview.
- Their work experience, background and references.
- The qualifications they have for the position.
- The enthusiasm they have towards the organisation and the job.
In brief the 4 major concerns are:
- Can this person do the job?
- Will this person do the job?
- How quickly will this person be up to speed doing the job?
- Will this person fit in?
How to prepare for the interview
- Find out about the company
- What are its products or services?
- What size is it?
- Who are its competitors?
The structure of the interview.
Most interviews follow a similar format1. Questions based on your CV to explain your career path and ability
Pick out your skills or achievements that are directly relevant, and rehearse these be prepared to explain any unusual parts of your CV, such as any time taken out from employment or education
2. General questions about you
How much do you know about the job?
What interests you about the job?
What skills and experience do you have that make you right for this job?
Why did you leave your last company?
What interests you about this company?
When have you had an opportunity to show initiative?
Who and what were you responsible for in your last job?
Can you give an example of when you coped well under pressure?
Can you give an example of how you found and solved problems?
Do you prefer to work as an individual or as part of a team?
What are your three biggest achievements so far in your career?
3. Your questions
Asking relevant questions shows you are interested, organised and able to plan ahead
An interviewer will be more impressed if you ask questions about the company, the department and the job.
Good questions to ask are about:
responsibilities,
to whom you will report to and who would report to you (if applicable)
who you will be working with
what the working hours are and if there are peak periods when you will be expected to work longer hours
Any company traditions / methods that they will want adopting
4. Informing you of the next stage of the process and when you will hear if you have been successful
Most companies will inform you of the outcome via ASSYSTEM - so do not press them for how you did.
What to wear?
First impressions are important! Dress suitably for the company, and don't overdo your makeup, jewellery and perfume or aftershave. Hair should be clean and tidy.
Take just one neat bag or briefcase with you - if needed. Be smart and clean, but make sure you are wearing something you are comfortable in. It is best to wear a slightly different outfit for a second interview at the same company, but do be as smart.
What to take?
A copy of your current CV. A notepad and pen may also be handy, along with a few questions to ask the interviewer.
Possibly some examples of work - but do not force them onto the interviewer.
During the interview
How to behave
Shake the interviewer's hand firmly if he/she offers
Take the lead from the interviewer - note whether their attitude is formal or relaxed
Make eye contact (but don't stare!)
Smile where appropriate
Don't sit down until you are asked
Look alert and sit upright
Rest your hands on the table or on your lap to look calm and prevent fiddling.
Answering questions
Listen carefully and concentrate, and don't interrupt
Show interest
Talk slowly and clearly
Keep your answers clear and to the point and avoid talking for too long.
Take time if necessary before answering a question or ask for clarification if you are unsure of the meaning
Don't criticise your current employer, or reveal confidential information
Be honest
Find opportunities to sell yourself, relating your skills to the job. An employer is looking for determination, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn
Concentrate on positive words, such as "enjoy" and "enthusiastic"
Asking questions
Make questions relevant
Show that you have researched the company
When the interview ends, do say if you haven't had the opportunity to put a point across or to ask a question. Say if you are interested in the job and thank the interviewer for seeing you.
TOUGH INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
Q: What is the most difficult challenge you have faced and how did you resolve it?
A: Pick on something recent and easy to explain and make sure that you don't infer you were the source of the problem in the first place. Show how you analysed the situation quickly and clearly, how you acted decisively and highlight a positive outcome.
Q: Why are you looking to change jobs?
A: Keep it positive. You are on the move because you relish new challenges, wish to take on more responsibility or want to develop your skills, nit because your present employer is a Dickensian miser, who doesn't recognise your true worth or because all your colleagues are idiots.
Q: Do you have any questions?
A: Retain at least one or two questions for the end the interview do demonstrate interest and a lively mind
What to do after the interview.
Speak to your Consultant immediately so that the interview is still fresh in your mind and say whether you are interested in the vacancy or not. Your consultant will phone the interviewer and pass any response on to you. If a job offer is made, your Consultant will do all the negotiations for you they know you, the client and the market.