Interview Skills

Interview Preparation

Time spent preparing for the interview will really pay off on the day, provided that the information you collect is used in the most effective manner.

Find out all you can about the organisation, in particular ensure you have found out the following:

• Who owns the organisation? Is it part of a larger group or does it have subsidiaries?
• Turnover and profitability
• Competitors and market rating
• Future plans for development

Call the company to obtain a copy of the annual report.

Check out other company information from the library or on the internet. As you read through the information write down any questions which come to mind. It is vital that you have a good selection of pre-determined questions.

First Impressions

The first point to remember is - ARRIVE EARLY. Research the location prior to the interview, so as to avoid arriving late and flustered. It is advisable to do a dummy run especially if you are not familiar with the area. This is especially important if you are using public transport. Make sure you have a contact number for the company in the case of unavoidable delay to warn your interviewer.

Smart dress is of course a pre-requisite. Make the effort, get a second opinion if possible and if you're in any doubt whatsoever dress conservatively.

Other points to remember include:

• Smiling, particularly on meeting the interviewer
• Shake hands firmly ensuring you are standing up
• Never smoke - even if invited, the effect on your body posture is negative
• Do accept tea or coffee or water if offered - this is a good way of relaxing the atmosphere
• If you are asked to complete an application form don't appear irritated. Avoid striking through areas that you feel are covered on your CV, list a brief outline instead

Technique

Listen to what the interviewer is asking. Answer clearly and concisely and if you are unsure of what is being asked clarify with the interviewer what information he/she is seeking. If at any point you begin to have reservations about the position do not show it. Never shut out the opportunity. You never know what opportunities may come up in the future within the same organisation.

Many questions can be anticipated in advance and it is wise to have the answers prepared. Frequently asked questions include:

• "Tell me about yourself?"
• "Are you happy with your career to date?"
• "What are your major achievement so far?"
• "Why are you seeking new employment?"
• "What are your strengths and weaknesses?"
• "What sort of salary are you looking for?"
• "What attracted you to this organisation?"

Asking Questions

Whilst it is important to ask questions, you should be careful not to end up interviewing the interviewer. Consider asking the following questions:

• "How will my performance be assessed?"
• "What are the longer term opportunities for promotion?"
• "How has the position become vacant?"
• "Is encouragement given to undertake further training?"
• "How does the department integrate with the rest of the organisation?"

Closing the Interview

Always allow plenty of time to see the interview through. If you are asked about your continued interest remain positive. Give yourself time to reflect and think about this position. Establish what the next step will be. Make notes/comments about the interview the same day - there may be a delay before the next stage and this will help to clarify points in your mind. If you are unsuccessful in getting the job find out why - once you get feedback you can address the problem if there is one.