Interview Techniques
Did you know that it takes only 30 seconds to make a lasting impression on someone? So, before attending that all-important interview, certain steps should be taken to ensure that it goes as successfully as possible.
Pre-interview
Preparation is paramount:
- Find out as much as possible about the company - visit their website, read their annual report and call in for a brochure if appropriate.
- Prepare a list of suitable questions for the interview. The company's operation, internal reporting structures and future plans are a good starting point.
- Prepare answers for commonly asked questions and go through the job description carefully to ensure you meet the criteria.
- Check the time and date of the interview, the location of the company and how long it will take for you to commute.
- Learn the name and status of the person/people you are seeing.
- Look your best. Wear a smart suit and clean shoes. Clean nails, groom hair and remove unnecessary jewellery.
The Interview
The importance of making a good first impression cannot be over-stated. A good start to an interview is essential; a bad start can be disastrous. Remember, you are giving first impressions from the moment you arrive.
Do's:
- Look your smartest, a professional appearance is important.
- Obtain clear directions so that you arrive on time.
- Introduce yourself courteously.
- Express yourself clearly.
- Be confident and assertive.
- Ask questions about the company and/or its products and services.
- Take time to construct your answers.
- Anticipate questions you may be asked and prepare the answers in advance.
- Remember the interview is a two-way process - it is an opportunity for you to find out whether this is the right company for you.
- Thank the interviewer.
Don't:
- Be late.
- Arrive unprepared.
- Be critical of previous employers.
- Make excuses.
- Give vague answers.
- Show lack of career planning.
- Over-emphasise money.
- Refuse to travel.
- Show your reservations.
- Leave your mobile phone on.
Body Language
Do's:
- Give a firm handshake.
- Walk slowly and deliberately.
- Maintain eye contact.
- Listen.
- Be alert and enthusiastic.
- Smile and nod - give non-verbal feedback.
- Relax.
Don'ts:
- Have a limp handshake.
- Be aggressive or conceited.
- Have poor diction or grammar.
- Talk too much.
- Lose concentration or attention.
Interview Questions
It is imperative that you prepare questions for your interviewer - it shows you have truly thought about the role and the company. Conversely, it will help to be prepared to answer certain common questions.
Questions commonly asked:
- What would your current company/firm miss about you?
- What could you bring to our company?
- What is your understanding of the role?
- What can you tell me about our company?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Why do you wish to move?
There may also be technical questions or questions of an economic nature. Read a quality business page and/or a current professional journal for recent developments.
Questions you may want to ask:
- How has this position become vacant?
- How would you describe the culture of the company?
- What projects will I be involved in initially?
- How do you see the role developing / what career path is there?
- Where is the company going?
- What is the next step?
Being fully prepared will help your confidence and ensure that you give the best possible impression.
Good Luck!