Interview Techniques
Telephone interview
It is vital that you pay attention during a telephone interview. They can take you by surprise, but you need to realise that these are used to 'screen' candidates to commence the process of short-listing for a formal face-to-face interview. Listen carefully to the questions you are asked, and provide relevant and concise answers. If the timing of the call is particularly bad (for example, you are at work), you can always ask if you can arrange to take the call at another time. This will also give you the opportunity to prepare yourself.
Preparing for interview
Congratulations! You have secured yourself a face-to-face interview. It is fair to say that interviews and public speaking are rated right up there in the fear factor as much as death and going to the dentist! However, by being prepared, you will give yourself the best chance of feeling relaxed and confident on the day.
Research
Hopefully you will already know something about the organisation you have applied to, but it pays off to know as much as you possibly can. Use the internet, family and friends, publications or the recruitment agency to gain as much information you can
Presentation
First impressions really do count. Whether you are being interviewed by an organisation itself or by an agency, you should act and dress professionally. Dress conservatively rather than casually or fashionably, pay attention to your personal grooming and SMILE!
The Interview
As mentioned, first impressions do count. Research shows that interviewers have an impression of you within the first 8-10 seconds of meeting you. The rest of the interview is spent either confirming the opinion or turning it around. Some useful tips include:
- Be mindful of your body language. Sit upright but comfortably in your chair and maintain good eye contact. However, be careful not to get into a staring competition! Keep you hands placed either relaxed in your lap, or resting naturally on the table in front of you. NEVER sit with your arms crossed in front of your chest.
- Be respectful, but not intimated. Don't forget that an interview should be a two way conversation, with each party sharing information to satisfy their questions
- Don't be afraid to take notes of important information that the interviewer provides
- Be prepared for difficult questions, or to provide examples of previous experiences. Don't be afraid to ask the interviewer to clarify any questions you don't understand.
- Take your cue from the interviewer. Some interviews can be extremely formal, and it is important that you act in a similar vein. Similarly, some can be quite relaxed which may be a reflection on the company culture, so you can relax a little too as this may be key to fitting in with the team. However, at all times, remember to be professional.
- Prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer. These can be standard questions such as:
- Why is the position available?
- What training and induction will be provided?
- What prospects are there for personal and professional development?
- What are the company plans for the future?
- What attributes would you hope that I would bring to the job?
- Always end the interview by expressing your continued interest in the position and company, and thank the interviewer for their time.