Tips on Interview Technique

Preparation

  • Know where you are going and who you are seeing and their position
  • Research the company /vacant role (ask consultant for guidance)

-What do they do?

-Where did they come from?

-What is their mission/vision?

-What are the minimum requirements for the role?

-Corporate Culture?

-Corporate Achievements

-Do they have social networks?

  • Arrive at least 10 minutes early, get directions ahead of time
  • Dress appropriately (ask your Consultant for guidance)
  • Review your resume before the interview and refresh your memory on facts and figures of your present/past employers.

The Interview

  • Answer questions clearly and do not lie
  • Do not give confidential details about your previous employers
  • Do not chew gum, look at your watch or use slang language
  • Show your personality - the company wants to know if you’re a “good fit” in the end you want to enjoy your job so make sure they know who you are to determine that.
  • Be Confident
  • Show Enthusiasm for your experience, for the (potential) new position and company
  • Be Positive - this means never badmouthing your old company, co-workers or bosses. Employers want to know that you will treat their company and employees with respect (even after you leave)
  • Don’t interrupt but stay active - make the interview less of an interview and more of a conversation!
  • Be detailed - when asked about former positions or responsibilities give specific examples where you excelled or overcame a challenging situation.
  • Be prepared to answer typical questions eg:

-What are your strengths and weaknesses?

-What makes you a strong candidate for this role?

-Major career achievements?

-Why do you wish to leave your current employer?

-What do you know about our company?

-Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

-What are your qualifications?

-Can you work under pressure, and give examples how

-How have you dealt with difficult situations in the workplace, and give examples

  • Always ask questions - have some written down from your research (before) which shows you’ve prepared and you care about the company/position.
  • Prepare questions you want to ask during the interview eg:

-Describe the induction and training programme?

-Reason the position is available?

-Culture of company?

-Company growth plans?

Closing the Interview

  • If you are interested in the position make sure you tell the interviewer/s
  • If they offer you the position and you want it, accept on the spot. If you would prefer time to think it over ask for this and provide a date that you will give them an answer (no more than 1-2 days)
  • Thank the interviewer/sfor their time and consideration of you

After the Interview

  • Call the consultant who referred you to the position immediately after the interview and describe how the interview went. Send an email to your consultant with your comments.