The interview is one of the most important aspects of getting a job, and making a good impression is vital to your chances. Effective employment interviewing involves preparation and practice and to be prepared for an interview you need to acquire knowledge about yourself, about the job, and about the employer you are interested in working for. The following are various techniques that can help you make a good interview impression and answer those “tricky” questions.
Research the Organisation and the Position
The more you know about the organisation and the job you are applying for, the better you will appear in the interview. An interviewer will be impressed by your interest and motivation, and you will be able to explain what you can do for the oirganisation.
You should find out the following information before your interview:
- The typical duties and salary range for the job in which you are interested;
- The background of the organisation;
- The products or services of the organisation;
- The philosophy and values of the organisation; and
- Any recent news regarding the organisation.
- The likely format interview and whether questions will be competency-based or unstructured.
Whether the interview is competency-based or unstructured, an interviewer must secure answers to four basic questions, either directly or indirectly through other questions and comments. You should be clear about your thoughts and prepared to give articulate answers to these questions:
- Why do you want to join the organisation?
- How much experience do you have in this area?
- How do your skills and values fit with the organisation?
- What are your salary requirements?
Handling Difficult Questions
If you are unsure about a question politely ask for the question to be repeated or for more information and write the question down if you need to. It is always better to understand the question than try and answer one that you don’t. Take your time with your answer and think about what you are saying. Never rush questions as you might miss out on saying what you wanted, and if you’re not sure you have answered the question completely, ask the interviewer if they would like you to elaborate. The best way to handle difficult questions in an employment interview is in an honest, positive manner. Some difficult questions employers ask include:
Tell me about yourself….
The employer wants to gain information about your work experience, not your personal life. Talk about experiences and goals that relate to the specific job you are applying for.
How would you describe yourself?
Discuss positive, work-related attitudes. For example, you could suggest that you enjoy working with people of all ages, are loyal, committed, etc.
Have you done this type of work before?
Link the skills you possess to the abilities needed for the job. Answer truthfully about how your experience relates to the position.
Why did you leave your last job?
Be honest, professional and positive in your response – interviewers need to be able to understand your reasoning for leaving past positions. Avoid any statements that may say something negative about yourself, your work, or your ability to get along with others.
You seem to be overqualified for this position. Why do you want this job?
The employer may be questioning your goals or challenging your long-term commitment to the job. Indicate your sincere interest in working for the organisation. Emphasise the unique attitudes, abilities and interests that led you to apply for this job.
To Finish
Ask Questions
You should use the interview to get answers to some of the questions you have about the job. Make sure you are prepared with some questions you would like answered in the job interview. Apart from frequently-used question regarding the timing of the recruitment decision, if possible use this opportunity to engage with the interviewer about the team or organizational goals, or their expected achievements of the candidate within say the first 100 days of the role. This prompts them to tell you exactly what they expect.
After the Interview
End the interview with a handshake or warm farewell, (taking into account COVID-19 and social distancing protocols) and thank the interviewer for their time. Reiterate your interest in the position and your qualifications. Follow up with a phone call if you are not contacted within a week of when the interviewer indicated you would be.
The CBR Recruitment Team prides itself on doing our absolute best to prepare you for your interview so you have the best opportunity of winning your next job. To discuss your next career move, please phone: 02 6103 7000 or email: hello@CBRrecruitment.com.au