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That is how many people describe a job interview.
But this needn’t be the case. All too often people mistake an interview for an interrogation, which it is not, it is a two way process. You will have the opportunity to ask questions as well
as being asked them.
Try to remember that your interviewer is trying to find out more about you and your suitability for the role. They are not trying to just find flaws in your character, they want to know your strengths and how they will benefit their company.
Preparation
Regardless of your natural confidence, communication skills or how many certificates you have in your portfolio, nothing is a substitute for good old fashion preparation! With it, you will also feel more relaxed and have a greater sense of what to expect, and this will save you from ‘on the spot’ panic.
Do your Homework: Research is paramount when preparing for a job interview.
- Find out as much as you can about the company; the products it sells, the services it provides, its competitors in the marketplace and any big or recent changes that have taken place.
- Also, if possible, try and find out about the interviewer, their background, education or ‘business style’. That way they will not feel as alien or imposing to you, and you’ll begin to realise they really are human!
- Remember also to research the role which you have applied for, know what the main functions are, the skills you be required to use, the working hours, salary, expectations etc.
Practice Makes Perfect
You can never have enough practice, so begin as soon as you know you have an interview right up until the night before, never leave it to the last minute as this is a sure-fire recipe for panic.
Remember the three P’s…
Practice answers to questions you anticipate to be asked: Make the answers clear and concise, don’t waffle. Be prepared for both obvious and tough interview questions, practice for both.
Practice the questions you want to ask the interviewer: Try to ask questions you could not find the answers to obviously, otherwise it will appear you have done little research yourself.
Practice talking about yourself. Know what your key skills are, your previous job positions, why you want this job, what your weaknesses are etc. All too often candidates research the company but forget to research themselves, which can lead to many uncomfortable silences as you try to recollect something about yourself!
What not to Wear
Appearance is very important when it comes to an interview, not so much on making a statement… but trying not to make the wrong one! How you present yourself can say a lot about your character and your interest for the role. Here are five tips on what is most appropriate for a job interview…
- Suited & Booted: You can never go wrong with a suit, both men and women. This will ensure you look smart, presentable and professional… three qualities any would-be employer admires. For men, clean, polished shoes are equally as important. For women, avoid open toed, or backless shoes, as well as skyscraper heels.
- Diamonds are forever: but they can come off every now and then! Jewellery in moderation is perfectly acceptable, but you should definitely remove piercings of the face. Try to keep to two rings per hand, and one earring per ear. Try to cover visible tattoos.
- Conservative Colours: When choosing a shirt, try to keep to softer, more pastel like colours, avoid bright or shocking ones. White, blues or greys are most recommended. Similarly, women should keep to more neutral colours, but soft pinks and yellows are fine.
- Handbags and Glad Rags: Trendy handbags and purses are best avoided, with smart, neutral coloured ones more appropriate. Also, avoid leather jackets and blazers as they are seen as ‘outwear’. Instead, go for a full length coat over a suit.
- Long & Short of it: Finally, short skirts are a definite no go area. If wearing a skirt ensure it is at least knee level or slightly above. Avoid bare legs, covering them with tights of a neutral or complementing colour to your shoes.
All in Good Time
Remember to arrive at least 10 minutes before your interview to save on feeling rushed and flustered. With this time look through company brochures that may be available in the reception area, this may unearth hidden gems about the company, allowing you to ask your interviewer more questions when appropriate.
On the day, take with you a portfolio with references inside. Many interviewers may not ask to view this unless previously informed, but taking it with you anyway will show the interviewer you are prepared and thorough with your planning.
The Questions
It’s hard to tell what questions you are likely to be asked on the day, however there are some staple interview questions that come up time and time again in various guises…
Basic Interview Questions:
- Tell me about yourself?
- What are your weaknesses?
- Why do you want to work here?
- What should we choose you over other candidates?
Also, interviewers will have more intense interview questions aimed at trying to get under the surface of who you really are and what you are capable of. These a far more varied and specific to the job and company you have applied to but some examples are as follows…
Tougher Interview Questions
- Have you ever had a discrepancy with your manager, and how was it resolved?
- How would you define “success” and how “successful” are you?
- What motivates you and how do you motivate others?
- What would your manager say about you?
What you need to keep in mind is that there are no right or wrong answers to any of these questions. Remember to avoid talking too much; keep your answers concise, to the point and waffle free! Bear in mind that the interviewer is only human… talk too much and like anyone else his attention will begin to waver.
Still stuck for answers? Read our tips below to help point you in the right direction…
Q: Tell me about yourself…
A difficult question in that there is an infinite amount of things you could say. The interviewer is seeing what subject you choose to discuss, which in itself can say a lot about you. Try to avoid talking too much about your social life with your friends or how much you enjoy watching TV! Instead, try focusing on any hobbies you have, voluntary work you may be involved in, what your aspirations are and what you generally enjoy doing. Also, avoid talking about work or employment, the opportunity to discuss your career life comes throughout the interview.
Q: What are your weaknesses?
Easily the most dreaded question of them all, the problem is not usually finding a weakness, it is the worry that highlighting them is going to forfeit a successful interview. This is not the case. Try to lessen your weakness by highlighting active steps for improvement, e.g. “I am always trying to improve my organisational skills, and although I take more time organising myself I have a booklet in which I pen all my tasks in order of importance”. This way you highlight your weakness but also how you are actively trying to improve.
Q: Why do you want to work here?
Be honest to a point, but be careful not to answer with “the money”! The interviewer is trying to determine that you have given this role a significant degree of thought. Answer honestly about what aspects of the role you like the sound of, whether that is the opportunity to use your communication skills, to further develop your customer service skills or to work with a forward thinking company with an excellent reputation with customers and staff alike.
Q: Why should we choose you over other candidates?
Or in other words, what makes you any different? This is the perfect opportunity for you to covey your skills and abilities, what experiences you have gained and how in the past you have a proven record of success. Try to give real life examples of when you made a difference at your previous roles and how you can carry this ability into your new role.
Remember, be honest. There is no point or need to lie about your background, your skills or your experiences. There are fewer things more uncomfortable than contradicting yourself in an interview, especially if the interviewer raises the anomaly with you. Preparation is the best way to avoid such circumstances, know your previous roles and experiences by heart, and you will have a much smoother ride!
The End is Nigh
Towards the end of the interview you can expect a time put aside for you to ask the interviewer any questions you may have. Not having any questions to ask shows a lack of preparation and interest in your potential employer. Prepare at least five questions that will explore a topic about the interviewer, the company or the role you have applied for. Some good examples include:
- What is on the horizon for the company, what goals are you hoping to achieve?
- What is the next step for the interview process?
- How did you become part of the company/what was your career path?
- How does the company measure success among its employees?
- What are the main objectives to be accomplished in the role?
Top Tips
- Firm handshake
- Make regular eye contact
- Say it with a smile!
- Take a pen and notepad
- Be polite to everyone you meet
- If unsure, ask the interviewer to repeat the question
- Avoid criticising old employers/ employees
- Avoid colloquial language
- Stay positive, negativity is easy to pick up
- Relax. Your interview is
an opportunity for you to show your potential employer you are right for
their company.
Panic Room
Remember, too many people treat the interview as though it is an interrogation, it isn’t! You have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have regarding the role… it is much an opportunity for you to find out if it is the right role for you. Use the interview to your advantage and enjoy it. All interviews are an experience and if you are unsuccessful this time round, you will only be more prepared the next time!
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