Interview Technique
You put in all that effort, taking days to complete your letter, CV/resume and application form. You find out that it was worth it, when you get that letter, email or phone call inviting you for an interview. Now, the work begins again. It’s highly unlikely that many people enjoy the gruelling experience that can be an interview. You feel nervous, dry-throated, dying to make a good impression but worried that you won’t. The answer to this lies, again, in preparation, so let’s have a look at what you need to do and what you must not do Preparation will not necessarily remove all your nerves and inhibitions, but it will make the interview experience a lot easier than it would otherwise have been. Extensive preparation will help to build your confidence, and if you feel confident you will perform more effectively. No matter how good your application form or CV/resume, your success, or otherwise, will be decided at the interview stage, so extensive preparation is essential.
What to Wear
You never having a second chance to make a first impression? This is particularly the case at an interview, when you come face to face with an employer. The way you dress, your manner and demeanour, your knowledge and your ability to provide the best answers to questions all contribute to the impression you make.
How should you dress? The saying goes that you should dress for the interview not the job. If you were an employer, and a candidate for a job arrived in jeans and a t-shirt, what impression would this create? It would indicate a lack of respect, at least, and suggest that the interviewee had no sense of occasion, a lack of perspective or someone, who ‘can’t be bothered’. It certainly wouldn’t provide you with that ‘edge’ over the opposition. Perhaps you dislike wearing formal clothes, but would it not be worth making an exception, if a job were the possible outcome? Remember, this is not a night out on the town but an opportunity to change your life, so dress accordingly.
A suit, or trousers/pants and jacket, with a plain-coloured shirt and tie, will create a good impression, for men. For ladies, a business suit or tailored knee-length skirt would be a good choice. Think in terms of dark colours and being conservative. Avoid too much makeup, and don’t show any cleavage. Keep jewellery to a minimum, and make it subtle. Always wear stockings, for an interview, as bare legs are seen as unprofessional. Choose ‘sensible’ shoes with a low to medium heel. Make sure shoes are polished. Interviewers often use shoes, both men’s and women’s, as an indicator of someone, who has made that extra effort (think about that ‘edge’. again and become the exceptional candidate, the one, who stands out).
How should you dress? The saying goes that you should dress for the interview not the job. If you were an employer, and a candidate for a job arrived in jeans and a t-shirt, what impression would this create? It would indicate a lack of respect, at least, and suggest that the interviewee had no sense of occasion, a lack of perspective or someone, who ‘can’t be bothered’. It certainly wouldn’t provide you with that ‘edge’ over the opposition. Perhaps you dislike wearing formal clothes, but would it not be worth making an exception, if a job were the possible outcome? Remember, this is not a night out on the town but an opportunity to change your life, so dress accordingly.
A suit, or trousers/pants and jacket, with a plain-coloured shirt and tie, will create a good impression, for men. For ladies, a business suit or tailored knee-length skirt would be a good choice. Think in terms of dark colours and being conservative. Avoid too much makeup, and don’t show any cleavage. Keep jewellery to a minimum, and make it subtle. Always wear stockings, for an interview, as bare legs are seen as unprofessional. Choose ‘sensible’ shoes with a low to medium heel. Make sure shoes are polished. Interviewers often use shoes, both men’s and women’s, as an indicator of someone, who has made that extra effort (think about that ‘edge’. again and become the exceptional candidate, the one, who stands out).
Research
Next on the agenda, is research. There is no point arriving for that interview, dressed properly and on time, if you know nothing about the company you have applied to work for. Research the company in detail. This is vital! Find out as much as possible about its history, aims and objectives. A quick look at the company’s website is not enough. Go that extra mile, as you did with your cover letter and CV/resume. Find out what the company’s needs and challenges are and why they are hiring staff. Now, work out how YOU can supply what they want. Analyse how your experience, qualifications and expertise make you suited to the
company and the advertised position. One way of doing this is to look at LinkedIn. This will provide an added insight into the company, its philosophy, culture and aims. ZoomInfo is another excellent source of information. Don’t be afraid to print off your research and take it with you to the interview. This will allow you to refer to the information and show your interest and initiative. You will then be in a position to discuss the company with the person or panel interviewing you. The discussion aspect is very important and could swing the interview your way. An interview should be a 50-50 thing, with conversation and not just answers to questions. Remember that the interviewer is looking for someone he/she can work with, and having an interview ‘conversation’ is a way of finding out if you are that person. If you’ve done your research and preparation, you will be able to elaborate on your answers to questions and not simply provide one-sentence answers. This will enable you to reveal more of who you really are and what you have to offer. Researching the company will allow you to tailor yourself and your skills to the company’s needs, and you will be able to sell yourself more effectively.
Rehearse your answers to questions and make your responses into a performance, rather than giving short answers that lack detail. Think of analogies or examples of situations that you can use to illustrate your answers and make them more emphatic. Rehearsing several times will build your confidence and reduce nerves, allowing you to speak with more clarity and conviction. You must know your CV/resume by heart. Take a copy into the interview with you. I once did this, when the person interviewing me had in her hand the wrong CV/resume. Giving her my copy put me in the driving seat, and I got the job.
After the interview, follow it up, with a letter or email of thanks, emphasising how keen you are and that the interview served to further your interest in the job and the company. The choice of successful candidate might be between you and one other person. A follow-up letter could tip the scales in your favour. Yes, it’s more effort on your part, but is it worth it? I think you know the answer (remember that ‘edge’).
company and the advertised position. One way of doing this is to look at LinkedIn. This will provide an added insight into the company, its philosophy, culture and aims. ZoomInfo is another excellent source of information. Don’t be afraid to print off your research and take it with you to the interview. This will allow you to refer to the information and show your interest and initiative. You will then be in a position to discuss the company with the person or panel interviewing you. The discussion aspect is very important and could swing the interview your way. An interview should be a 50-50 thing, with conversation and not just answers to questions. Remember that the interviewer is looking for someone he/she can work with, and having an interview ‘conversation’ is a way of finding out if you are that person. If you’ve done your research and preparation, you will be able to elaborate on your answers to questions and not simply provide one-sentence answers. This will enable you to reveal more of who you really are and what you have to offer. Researching the company will allow you to tailor yourself and your skills to the company’s needs, and you will be able to sell yourself more effectively.
Rehearse your answers to questions and make your responses into a performance, rather than giving short answers that lack detail. Think of analogies or examples of situations that you can use to illustrate your answers and make them more emphatic. Rehearsing several times will build your confidence and reduce nerves, allowing you to speak with more clarity and conviction. You must know your CV/resume by heart. Take a copy into the interview with you. I once did this, when the person interviewing me had in her hand the wrong CV/resume. Giving her my copy put me in the driving seat, and I got the job.
After the interview, follow it up, with a letter or email of thanks, emphasising how keen you are and that the interview served to further your interest in the job and the company. The choice of successful candidate might be between you and one other person. A follow-up letter could tip the scales in your favour. Yes, it’s more effort on your part, but is it worth it? I think you know the answer (remember that ‘edge’).
Arriving for the Interview
Be punctual and arrive in time. Five or ten minutes early is good. Being late for an interview spells disaster, so plan ahead. If driving by car, check the route in advance, in case of road works or diversions, and make sure there are parking facilities. You might arrive at the venue, on time, then find you have to search for a parking space. Panic sets in, and you may now be late, so do plan ahead. If travelling by train or bus, check the schedules to ensure arrival on time.
When you arrive, introduce yourself with a smile and confidence. A firm handshake is recommended and a friendly word or two of greeting. The interview begins, and you are nervous, but your preparation helps ease your nerves, so let’s now look at some popular or standard questions used by interviewers and what they are looking for in your answers.
When you arrive, introduce yourself with a smile and confidence. A firm handshake is recommended and a friendly word or two of greeting. The interview begins, and you are nervous, but your preparation helps ease your nerves, so let’s now look at some popular or standard questions used by interviewers and what they are looking for in your answers.
Interview Questions and Answers
1 Why did you apply for this job?
What they are looking for, here is the level of motivation, your knowledge of the post (remember to research), what you can offer the company and how you will benefit. Do NOT say why you want to leave your present job, unless asked to do so. If you have to do this, mention what the new job has to offer and not why you want to leave your current job. NEVER be negative, in an interview.
2. Tell me about yourself.
Provide a brief picture of who you are, your background, confident personality and what interests you. This could include hobbies, the fact that you are friendly and courteous, your sense of humour, belief in hard work and concern for others. Make it concise, and do not ramble.
3. How do you spend your spare time?
They want to know if you are a rounded and balanced person, not a couch potato or TV addict. Mention things such as keeping fit, family life, helping others, your hobbies (find at least one) and any skills that are relevant to the job. Computers might come into this category, as most jobs now demand computer skills of some sort.
4. Tell me about a time when you have been involved as part of a team.
Employers want team players, people who work well with others and are willing to share burdens and provide help when needed. Give examples of times when you have done this. Being part of a team in a previous job, helping out at home, doing chores for friends and family, being a member of a sports team are all examples you might use. Try to link your answers to the job and emphasise how past experiences of team work have benefited you and in what way.
5. What are your main strengths and weaknesses?
Here, the interviewer wants to know how self-aware you are, as well as what you can bring to the job. Your answer should display confidence in your abilities and an awareness of areas where you can improve. Really work on this, as it can be a difficult one to answer. Never answer in a negative way but turn a weakness into a strength. For example, you might say that you’re a bit of a perfectionist but that this trait results in work of quality.
6. Why should we employ you?
Now is the chance to shine! This should be part of your ‘performance’, so work hard on this answer. Show how your skills and experience are suited to the job, and give examples. Refer to the job description and person specification, indicating the ways in which previous work has prepared you for this new job. Again, back it up with facts and evidence.
7. What has been your biggest achievement?
Your answer will reveal what is important to you and what motivates you, so think very carefully, here. Choose something that stands out as showing you as a positive, caring and determined person. You might use examples of family life, such as being a good husband/wife and parent. Success in education is another possibility, as is sports achievement, especially within a team context.
7. What have your previous work experiences taught you?
Skills, responsibilities and working well with others should feature here. Link your answer to how it would benefit a new employer and, once again, provide examples or anecdotal evidence.
8. When did you last work under pressure?
The interviewer wants to know how you deal with problems. Say that good preparation and knowledge of your job helps to prevent problems and pressure. But, when pressure does occur, you deal with it calmly, step by step, and prioritise. Say, also, that you’re not afraid to ask for help, as this is part of what team work involves. Once again, think of an example and explain how you coped.
9. How do you deal with conflict?
Emphasise the need for a steady hand, here. Say that discussion and reason help to reduce or remove conflict. Explain that you believe arguing solves nothing and creates a negative and destructive atmosphere, which has no place at work. Suggest that if a conflict cannot be resolved those parties involved should take it to the manager for advice. The manager, after all, is part of the team and there to help. As ever, try to provide an example of a situation in which a conflict was resolved.
10. What is the biggest problem you have ever faced?
Here, the interviewer is looking for strength of character and your ability to make decisions when under stress. When answering this question, don’t limit yourself to situations at work. You may have experienced a difficult domestic situation, at home, or an emergency of some sort. Think hard about an occasion when your actions resulted in a good outcome or one that puts you in a good light.
11. Are you currently looking at other career options?
You might say that you’ve looked at similar positions in the same field or that you are interested only in this job, at the moment, because of the reasons already mentioned. This shows that you have bothered to research and indicates initiative. Do not say that you might be interested in various other fields, as this suggests a lack of motivation and commitment. The safest option is to say that, as you explained earlier, you are set on getting the job in question.
12. How quickly do you think you could make a difference, if offered the job?
Say you would hope to do so immediately, by jumping in with both feet, asking questions and learning quickly, whilst being prepared to listen to those with more experience.
13. Where would you like to be, in ten years’ time?
Answer positively, to indicate commitment and ambition. Say you would like to do the best you can and improve at the job, with a view to promotion and added responsibility. Don’t say that you’re unsure but be confident and constructive.
14. What salary do you expect?
In most cases, the salary will have been indicated in the job advertisement. If so, say that you would be happy with it, to start off. If the salary is within a range, do not undersell yourself but say you would be prepared to discuss this if offered the post.
15. What do you like or dislike most about your current job?
Be positive: say you like the job because it offers a challenge to do well and that you believe it allows you to do something productive and useful. Give examples. Say that there is nothing in particular that you dislike. Remember, never give a negative answer.
16. How would your colleagues describe you?
Answer, by saying that you would like to think that colleagues think of you as a reliable and professional person and a good member of the team.
17. Would you say you have been successful, in your current job?
Think carefully about this and describe in detail what you do and have done well. If you have been given a good assessment by your manager, say so and sell yourself. An interview is no place for shrinking violets. It’s a place to stand out.
18. Do you have any questions?
It is essential to ask questions, at the end of the interview. What does it say, if you don’t ask questions? It says that you can’t be bothered or are not really interested, and what employer wants an employee who isn’t interested? Research shows that recruiting managers and interviewers find it inexcusable for a job candidate not to ask questions. And, this is another opportunity for you to shine, to stand out from the rest (the ‘edge’ again). Asking questions indicates that you have done your research, that you are a serious candidate and the kind of person who has made the effort to go that extra mile to get the job.
In advance, prepare a list of questions, print them off and take them with you to the interview. Use them to show your knowledge of the company and the post in question. The standard of the questions asked shows the depth of your knowledge, initiative and commitment to getting that job. The more senior the position, the more sophisticated your questions should be.
The questions you ask should give you the chance to find out more about the job role and the company. They should be questions that were not answered in the course of your research and should show a high level of motivation on your part.
Possible questions to ask:
Is there such a thing as a typical day, in this post, and what does it involve?
Who would I be working with, as part of a team and are there set targets?
Who would I report to, regarding decisions made and the day to day responsibilities?
If successful, when would I begin work?
Is training and development available for this post?
How is the company structured and how does the department for this job interact with the other departments?
What opportunities are there for promotion?
Remember, you MUST rehearse your answers to questions. The extra work will be worth it, I promise you. Employers have commented that the main reason applicants fail at interview is lack of preparation. If you want to be in the running then stand out above the rest, I’m sure you will, by now, agree that a great deal of preparation and research is needed.
Before the interview, ask someone to give you a ‘mock’ interview
Have at least one ‘mock’ interview. Learn from this and cut out weaknesses, while building on strengths. It will make an immense difference, if you do this, as, once you get into the interview room you will, in a way, have been there before. This will provide you with confidence.
What they are looking for, here is the level of motivation, your knowledge of the post (remember to research), what you can offer the company and how you will benefit. Do NOT say why you want to leave your present job, unless asked to do so. If you have to do this, mention what the new job has to offer and not why you want to leave your current job. NEVER be negative, in an interview.
2. Tell me about yourself.
Provide a brief picture of who you are, your background, confident personality and what interests you. This could include hobbies, the fact that you are friendly and courteous, your sense of humour, belief in hard work and concern for others. Make it concise, and do not ramble.
3. How do you spend your spare time?
They want to know if you are a rounded and balanced person, not a couch potato or TV addict. Mention things such as keeping fit, family life, helping others, your hobbies (find at least one) and any skills that are relevant to the job. Computers might come into this category, as most jobs now demand computer skills of some sort.
4. Tell me about a time when you have been involved as part of a team.
Employers want team players, people who work well with others and are willing to share burdens and provide help when needed. Give examples of times when you have done this. Being part of a team in a previous job, helping out at home, doing chores for friends and family, being a member of a sports team are all examples you might use. Try to link your answers to the job and emphasise how past experiences of team work have benefited you and in what way.
5. What are your main strengths and weaknesses?
Here, the interviewer wants to know how self-aware you are, as well as what you can bring to the job. Your answer should display confidence in your abilities and an awareness of areas where you can improve. Really work on this, as it can be a difficult one to answer. Never answer in a negative way but turn a weakness into a strength. For example, you might say that you’re a bit of a perfectionist but that this trait results in work of quality.
6. Why should we employ you?
Now is the chance to shine! This should be part of your ‘performance’, so work hard on this answer. Show how your skills and experience are suited to the job, and give examples. Refer to the job description and person specification, indicating the ways in which previous work has prepared you for this new job. Again, back it up with facts and evidence.
7. What has been your biggest achievement?
Your answer will reveal what is important to you and what motivates you, so think very carefully, here. Choose something that stands out as showing you as a positive, caring and determined person. You might use examples of family life, such as being a good husband/wife and parent. Success in education is another possibility, as is sports achievement, especially within a team context.
7. What have your previous work experiences taught you?
Skills, responsibilities and working well with others should feature here. Link your answer to how it would benefit a new employer and, once again, provide examples or anecdotal evidence.
8. When did you last work under pressure?
The interviewer wants to know how you deal with problems. Say that good preparation and knowledge of your job helps to prevent problems and pressure. But, when pressure does occur, you deal with it calmly, step by step, and prioritise. Say, also, that you’re not afraid to ask for help, as this is part of what team work involves. Once again, think of an example and explain how you coped.
9. How do you deal with conflict?
Emphasise the need for a steady hand, here. Say that discussion and reason help to reduce or remove conflict. Explain that you believe arguing solves nothing and creates a negative and destructive atmosphere, which has no place at work. Suggest that if a conflict cannot be resolved those parties involved should take it to the manager for advice. The manager, after all, is part of the team and there to help. As ever, try to provide an example of a situation in which a conflict was resolved.
10. What is the biggest problem you have ever faced?
Here, the interviewer is looking for strength of character and your ability to make decisions when under stress. When answering this question, don’t limit yourself to situations at work. You may have experienced a difficult domestic situation, at home, or an emergency of some sort. Think hard about an occasion when your actions resulted in a good outcome or one that puts you in a good light.
11. Are you currently looking at other career options?
You might say that you’ve looked at similar positions in the same field or that you are interested only in this job, at the moment, because of the reasons already mentioned. This shows that you have bothered to research and indicates initiative. Do not say that you might be interested in various other fields, as this suggests a lack of motivation and commitment. The safest option is to say that, as you explained earlier, you are set on getting the job in question.
12. How quickly do you think you could make a difference, if offered the job?
Say you would hope to do so immediately, by jumping in with both feet, asking questions and learning quickly, whilst being prepared to listen to those with more experience.
13. Where would you like to be, in ten years’ time?
Answer positively, to indicate commitment and ambition. Say you would like to do the best you can and improve at the job, with a view to promotion and added responsibility. Don’t say that you’re unsure but be confident and constructive.
14. What salary do you expect?
In most cases, the salary will have been indicated in the job advertisement. If so, say that you would be happy with it, to start off. If the salary is within a range, do not undersell yourself but say you would be prepared to discuss this if offered the post.
15. What do you like or dislike most about your current job?
Be positive: say you like the job because it offers a challenge to do well and that you believe it allows you to do something productive and useful. Give examples. Say that there is nothing in particular that you dislike. Remember, never give a negative answer.
16. How would your colleagues describe you?
Answer, by saying that you would like to think that colleagues think of you as a reliable and professional person and a good member of the team.
17. Would you say you have been successful, in your current job?
Think carefully about this and describe in detail what you do and have done well. If you have been given a good assessment by your manager, say so and sell yourself. An interview is no place for shrinking violets. It’s a place to stand out.
18. Do you have any questions?
It is essential to ask questions, at the end of the interview. What does it say, if you don’t ask questions? It says that you can’t be bothered or are not really interested, and what employer wants an employee who isn’t interested? Research shows that recruiting managers and interviewers find it inexcusable for a job candidate not to ask questions. And, this is another opportunity for you to shine, to stand out from the rest (the ‘edge’ again). Asking questions indicates that you have done your research, that you are a serious candidate and the kind of person who has made the effort to go that extra mile to get the job.
In advance, prepare a list of questions, print them off and take them with you to the interview. Use them to show your knowledge of the company and the post in question. The standard of the questions asked shows the depth of your knowledge, initiative and commitment to getting that job. The more senior the position, the more sophisticated your questions should be.
The questions you ask should give you the chance to find out more about the job role and the company. They should be questions that were not answered in the course of your research and should show a high level of motivation on your part.
Possible questions to ask:
Is there such a thing as a typical day, in this post, and what does it involve?
Who would I be working with, as part of a team and are there set targets?
Who would I report to, regarding decisions made and the day to day responsibilities?
If successful, when would I begin work?
Is training and development available for this post?
How is the company structured and how does the department for this job interact with the other departments?
What opportunities are there for promotion?
Remember, you MUST rehearse your answers to questions. The extra work will be worth it, I promise you. Employers have commented that the main reason applicants fail at interview is lack of preparation. If you want to be in the running then stand out above the rest, I’m sure you will, by now, agree that a great deal of preparation and research is needed.
Before the interview, ask someone to give you a ‘mock’ interview
Have at least one ‘mock’ interview. Learn from this and cut out weaknesses, while building on strengths. It will make an immense difference, if you do this, as, once you get into the interview room you will, in a way, have been there before. This will provide you with confidence.
Body Language at Interviews
Body Language at Interviews
You may get almost everything right, at an interview, but there is a factor that can go against you and result in the interviewer disliking you or judging you in a negative way. Research shows that some recruiters or managers feel they know whether a candidate will be suitable, or not, within thirty seconds, through the body language the candidate displays. So, we have, here, another example of a ‘first impression’, It is vital to make it a good one, or all your hard work will have been for nothing, and you will have to go back to square one, because of something that is easily avoidable. Let’s look at what body language to apply and what to avoid.
Arrival in Reception
You will be observed immediately, and your manner, demeanour and body language will be noted. Never sit with outstretched legs or your hands clasped behind your head. This gives of a signal of being too casual and ‘not bothered’.
Meeting the Manager or Interviewer
Eye contact, a smile and a firm handshake indicate confidence, enthusiasm and good manners. Don’t crush someone’s hand but do provide a firm grip, which signals sincerity.
During the Interview
Don’t slouch or cross your legs, appearing too relaxed or disinterested. Crossing your arms suggests you are being defensive and lack confidence, so avoid this. If you have a
briefcase or handbag with you, refrain from gripping it too tightly, as this will indicate nerves instead of a confident and composed character.
Never fiddle with your ears, scratch your head or rub your nose, as this can give the impression that you’re lying or being evasive. Holding your notes in one hand can help you to avoid this.
Ideally, you should sit upright with hands clasped or holding your notes and both feet on the floor, with legs uncrossed. Your hands may be used, at some stage, with small gestures, to emphasise a point.
Keep enough space between you and the person interviewing. Getting too close may make the interviewer feel uncomfortable or threatened.
Maintain eye contact but don’t stare. Nod, in agreement with points made.
If more than one person is interviewing you, make sure you look at each one, when answering a question.
When the interview is over, give your thanks, with a smile, and shake hands again, before you leave. Your exit should display the same confidence as your entry.
Practise the above, in your ‘mock’ interview or when alone, rehearsing not only what you will say bot also the manner in which you will say it. Imagine what you will do with your hands, how you will sit and how you will speak. Doing this over and again, before the interview might well give you that ‘edge’ we’re looking for.
Recap
Now, let’s recap and what to do and what to avoid:
Do:
Prepare and research
Dress professionally for the occasion]
Sell yourself and match your skills to the company’s requirements
Be friendly, polite and positive
Show enthusiasm and confidence
Use appropriate body language
Prepare a list of questions and support information to take with you
Plan your route in advance
Arrive on time
Write a letter of thanks and seek feedback
Do Not:
Arrive late
Interrupt when a question is being asked
Slouch or look uninterested
Talk too much or waffle
Take rejection personally – feedback will help, with this, and you can learn from mistakes.
Telephone Interviews
Not everyone is comfortable using the phone in formal situations. The way around this us, again, to prepare and rehearse. Provide yourself with a written script to use and have your CV/resume available. Write down exactly what it is you want to know or ask about and where you saw the job advertised, if making an enquiry about a job. Be polite, give your name and explain what job you are interested in. Jobs often have a reference number, so make a note of it ready to provide it to the person at the other end of the phone.
If you’re being interviewed over the phone, make sure to find somewhere quiet, where you won’t be interrupted. Again, have your CV/resume at hand, having prepared your answers and questions in advance. A telephone interview might be the first step towards a full interview in person, so the preparation and the way you conduct yourself are, once more, vital.
If you’re being interviewed over the phone, make sure to find somewhere quiet, where you won’t be interrupted. Again, have your CV/resume at hand, having prepared your answers and questions in advance. A telephone interview might be the first step towards a full interview in person, so the preparation and the way you conduct yourself are, once more, vital.
Conclusion
Interviews are not a pleasant experience. However, with preparation and hard work, you can reduce nerves and have a better chance of selling yourself, getting the 'edge' over the competition. Good luck!
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