JOB INTERVIEWS

A job interview

PREPARATION

THE DAY BEFORE

For obvious reasons avoid having a heavy night prior to an interview. Make sure you have any documentation that you have been asked to bring. Check the time, date and venue. Organise your transport.

APPEARANCE IS IMPORTANT

Dress to impress in smart clothes in which you feel comfortable. Get your outfit ready the day before if possible.

ON THE DAY

Make sure you leave yourself plenty of time to reach the venue. Leave ample time to find a parking space or a quick visit to the bathroom to freshen up.

NERVES

Whilst attending interviews can be an extremely nerve wracking experience for the applicants, it is also often a difficult experience for those who are conducting the interview. Interviewers often end up feeding on the nerves of the applicant and may themselves become flustered and uncomfortable.

If you do suffer From nerves I would recommend that you refrain from drinking drinks which contain caffeine such as Tea, coffee and soft drinks for a few hours before the interview.

THE INTERVIEW PROCESS

A typical interview may include a tour of the company or department, the interview and possibly some form of test. Use the tour to familiarise yourself with the place and don't be afraid to ask questions and show a bit of enthusiasm. The tour also gives you an opportunity to gauge how friendly your potential new colleagues are.

For some positions you may be expected to attend two or more interviews.

The formal interview will normally consist of a panel of interviewers who will take it in turns to ask you pre-formulated questions. Always think before you answer, and don't be put off by the panel taking notes.

A list of very standard questions that are often included are:

• Why do you want the job?
• What are your weaknesses?
• What do you think you can bring to the position?
• Where do you see yourself in five/ten years time?
• What drives you?
• How do you deal with stress?

When answering questions, give actual examples of your previous experiences in order to answer the question.

You may also be given a scenario and then asked to describe how you would handle the scenario.

You are often given the opportunity to ask some questions at the end of the interview - It is wise to have pre-formulated a number of possible questions to ask.

BE HONEST

If you don't know an answer be honest and say so.

BODY LANGUAGE

Body language is extremely important and is often difficult to control when under stress. It is a really useful skill to understand the basics of body language and you can use it to your advantage.

• Make good use of eye contact
• Address the person who asked the question although acknowledge the other members of the panel
• Use reflective posture and lean towards the person asking the question
• Avoid fidgeting
• Avoid defensive postures (E.g. arms folded)

AFTER YOUR INTERVIEW: TREAT EACH INTERVIEW AS AN OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN AND IMPROVE

I always like to reflect on my performance at interview. Straight after the interview:

• Write down the questions that you were asked and also write down your response. Reflect on what would have may be been a better answer.
• Reflect on what you liked about the interview, and what you didn't like.
• How could you improve next time?

Always ask for feedback, even if you get the job. Constructive feedback can be extremely useful, especially if you might be attending similar interviews in the future.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE OFFERED THE POSITION

An interview gives you a chance to help decide whether you actually want the job should it be offered to you. After all you have probably got to meet your potential new boss.

If you are offered the job then make sure you discuss conditions and then ask for a formal letter which details conditions and a start date. I would not recommend handing in your notice or cancel any other interviews before receiving a formal letter. Bear in mind that the process of gaining occupational health and possibly CBR clearance can take several weeks to a month.

If you are leaving a previous job - DON'T BURN YOUR BRIDGES. Always leave on good terms.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

This page was written by Jonathan Tolhurst whilst job hunting in the summer of 2008. The page was last updated in September 2008.

If you would like to comment on this page please contact me.

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