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Interview technique
The purpose of improving your interview technique is to provide
you with a powerful weapon in your career search. Many people
come out of interview feeling that they did not perform as
well as they could have or were not provided with the opportunity
to shine. To gain interview success you must master 4 skills:
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You
must be able to demonstrate your skills and expertise
verbally and within a limited time scale. |
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You must respond
openly, answer every question fully, and attempt to
cite examples. |
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You must be
able to handle any objections that are put to you. |
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You may have
to justify your salary expectations. |
| Information |
| Some time spent preparing
will benefit you a great deal. By knowing what to expect
you will be more confident and in control during your
interview. |
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ensure you have the following information: |
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The
name and position of the person conducting the interview
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The
company name, address and telephone number |
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How to get there! |
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The
format of the interview and will there be any tests
to perform. |
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The
likely length of the interview so you can leave yourself
plenty of time |
Have a good knowledge of the company and the job. Your recruiter
will provide you with information but personal effort will
greatly benefit you, enhance your credibility and reinforce
your interest.
There
are a number of sources through which to access client
information: |
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Magna
Systems |
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Internet
browsing |
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Yellow pages or trade press |
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Telephone
the company to obtain general Company information |
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Business
section of the local library |
| Useful
information to find out: |
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What
the company does |
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Size of the
organization |
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Current Turnover
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Is it part of
a larger group/where does company originate |
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Industry type
and its place in the market |
| Dress |
Most companies
will expect both men and women to wear a suit. Also
wearing suit shows a respect for the client. Smart and
conservative is the safest option. |
| First
impressions |
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Firm
Hand Shake (not too vigorous!) |
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SMILE! |
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Eye Contact
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Arrive around
5-10 minutes early - allow yourself plenty of time.
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Create a good
impression with the receptionist - they are sometimes
called on for feedback. |
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If you are asked
to complete the company application form do not appear
irritated and write 'resume' on sections. Instead provide
a brief summary. |
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Remain calm
and confident if kept waiting, there is likely to be
a very good reason. |
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Most of all,
relax and try not to worry. |
| The
interview |
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Do
not slouch or fidget with pens or business cards if
you are given one. |
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Maintain eye
contact with the interviewer, try to do this with all
interviewers if there is more than one |
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Do not smoke
or eat, but do accept tea or coffee if you want it |
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Always remain
positive, do not give negative responses regarding previous
employers or positions |
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Think about
your key strengths and weaknesses as this is a popular
question |
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Always ask
at least one question, it is a perfect opportunity to
clarify any queries. Your previous preparation will
aid you to formulate possible questions relating to
the company, for example, the structure of the department,
opportunities for progression |
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Know what is
on your resume, if you cannot remember details the interviewer
may have doubts regarding authenticity |
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Thank them for
their time and if you are interested in the position
do not be afraid to say this |
If you are unsure by the
end of the interview whether the position is for you, try
to remain interested and enthusiastic. Another role within
the same company may arise at a later date, and people who
came across well at interview are often remembered.
Interview testing
Interview testing is becoming a more and more popular option
with employers. They tend to come in two different forms:
Personality Tests
These tests come in the form of a written questionnaire asking
for your views regarding different hypothetical situations.
You are asked to decide which option suits you best. From
your answers they can formulate a profile on your likes, dislikes,
strengths and weaknesses. Due to the subjective nature of
these tests they are seldom used as the sole criteria for
interview success.
Ability and Aptitude Tests
Aptitude or intelligence tests measure a person's potential
ability after training. These can include written verbal or
numerical tests. However popular testing is becoming, the
majority of organizations still rely on qualifications and
previous experience to judge aptitude.
Panel interviews
Do not be distressed if faced with a number of people in a
panel interview situation. They tend to specialize in different
areas and often include a representative from personnel. This
person may ask more general questions leaving more specialized
questions to Line Managers from the relevant department.
The important point to note is to acknowledge
with eye contact all members of the panel at some stage while
focusing on the person asking the question. If possible try
to remember the names of the people interviewing.
Second interviews
Second interviews are a good sign that your performance at
first interview has been impressive. At this stage you will
have the opportunity to get a more detailed idea about the
company and role.
You may be able to obtain more information
regarding the structure of the organization and more detail
regarding the project. You may also be given the opportunity
to meet the people you will be working with.
Second interviews are also an excellent opportunity
to clarify any concerns you may have by asking questions.
Presentations
For some positions you may be asked to give a presentation.
This is a means by which the interviewer can gauge your communication
skills as well as your ability to present your ideas.
Typical questions
A common fear in interview is being asked a difficult question
and your mind going blank. If this happens, the best advice
would be to keep calm.
Interviews are often structured in a particular way in order
to assess the suitability of applicants. Therefore, some questions
can often be anticipated, and if you have a general idea of
what may be asked you can prepare a few ideas beforehand.
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What would be your
ideal job? Describe it. |
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What do you know about our company?
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What was the biggest challenge at
your last job? |
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What immediate contributions can you make? |
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What was your most rewarding experience?
Tell me about it. |
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Why do you want this job? |
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Tell me about yourself? |
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What motivates you? |
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How do you motivate your team? |
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What are your greatest weaknesses?
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Give me an example of when you overcame
adversity? |
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Do you work well under pressure?
Give an example. |
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What are your long and short range
goals? |
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Where do you see yourself in 5, 10
years? |
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What have you done that shows initiative?
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Define co-operation? |
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Why are you looking to move? |
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What does success mean to you? |
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What experience have you had in leadership
positions? |
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What is your management philosophy?
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How do you set priorities? |
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What type of work environment do
you work best in? |
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If you were recruiting someone for
this position, what would you be looking for? |
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What do you think it takes to make
progress in a good company? |
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How would your references describe you? |
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What is the last thing you want me to remember about you? |
Interview feedback
Following your interview it is important to thoroughly brief
your recruiter on your thoughts regarding how the interview
went. Whether you are interested and whether you have any
reservations.
Your recruiter will be able to help with any queries you have.
It is also useful to have your feedback on the company for
our own records, so we can advise other people what to expect
for future positions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, remain calm and focused. You have already impressed
us and you have impressed the company with your resume. Your
recruiter will also have briefed them on your individual qualities
and ambitions. Finding the right position for you is our main
goal and by working together we can do this successfully
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