...and would you say you are good at them. I've got one on Monday.. in the past i've never thought they go very well I always get caught out by a question I wasn't ready for. Like I went for a job driving a forklift in a warehouse that did indian ready meals and they said "do you know anything about rice?" I was stumped and had to confess I don't.
Rule #1: Don't fake. Rule #2: Make sure you know the firm you're applying to (if not interviewing an agency). If the company does rice imports, it might be a good idea to know at least a bit about rice, as well as the firm itself (who's the MD, how many offices - the kind of stuff that a quick Wiki and hit on the homepage can sort you out with). That lookup is the only thing I do to prep, unless the job requirements asked for something I was rusty at (in the advert), in which case I brush up on that. And yes, i am reasonable at Interviews.
If you are being interviewed by the people that you are actually going to work with, they probably just want to know that you will fit in, so just be nice, be normal and don't worry about not answering every question to 100%
Yep, and don't be afraid to say you don't know the answer to any of their questions (just don't word it exactly like that). Experienced interviewers can usally sniff blagging a mile off.
Check the dress code. For my current job the interview invite actually told me not to wear a suit. Do your home work. Hit the firm up on wiki, linkedin or other social media format and do a bit of research on them. It makes you sound clever and professional with minimal effort. A good firm hand shake if it's a male interviewer. Not a bone breaker but personally a good hand shake goes a long way. It can be hard but try to avoid clammy hands if possible as well. If in doubt avoid humour. If your an amazing judge of character and situation you might be able to get away with it but I'd say its a big risk and one I usually wouldn't risk. When they say "Do you have any questions?" ask questions! I used to jot down some ideas and answers to likely questions I'm going to be asked. I wouldn't take the notes in with me but it helps to have them fresh in my mind. Most importantly and in the words of The Hitch Hikers Guide to the Galaxy: DON'T PANIC! Thats what I do. I've had reasonable success in interviews overall but I've only ever had 3 jobs so I can't really talk.
Turn up. Fart Excellence. Get Job. Win. Is there something i'm doing wrong? Just turn up, show you are enthusiastic, smile etc. They already know if you are good enough for the job from your CV. As long as you can backup your experiences and knowledge you say you have there wont be any problems.
Be on time is a biggy. If dress code states casual they expect casual if they want you in formal its suit job. Casual business wear as an example could be jeans and a shirt no tie though. Always research the company, and always ask a question at the end that is relivent. If its a retail job they may get you to talk to a customer, if its a IT job they may ask you to do a basic task.
I haven't done an interview for quite some time but judging by having never been turned down, I'd say I'm very good at them... or possibly a combination of me doing well and the other candidates stumbling at on some part of theirs. Here's some bits I can think of off the top of my head. The absolute most important thing you need to do when sitting in an interview is to relax, always remember to relax at an interview. Any interviewer I've ever met hates it when someone looks anxious and tense, it makes it look like you're not prepared. Always make it a rule to shake the hand of your interviewer(s) when you greet them, also if you've been given their names in advance then be sure to use them in the greet. I think learning about the company's history is common sense, but don't ramble on about everything you've looked up as they only want a brief confirmation that you know what they do. If you're not sure how to answer a question or don't know the answer, be honest and let them know that you're unsure. Even better! Why not take the opportunity to ask them if they could tell you a little bit about what they asked? Not only does it show them you're genuinely keen to learn from them, but you've fulfilled part of the rule of always having questions to ask the interviewer. Have a pad and pen and take notes, don't spend lots of time looking down (always look at the people in front of you) and writing though. Just short notes as reminders. If they offer you a drink, say yes. You don't actually have to drink it, just accept it. I don't know why, but from the all people I've worked with and sat in on panels, they always seem to feel slightly negative if the person they interview refuses the offered beverage. Keep your answers to the point, nobody wants to sit through someone rambling on and possibly going off-topic. After answering, if you feel that you may have not answered it clearly then make it a point to ask them if they need more clarification. If they ask you to describe a situation where you encountered a problem, and to explain how you dealt with the problem to get the job done (such a dull question). For the love of all things sane, try not use a project you did in education as an example. If that question does come up, if possible you want to make it relevant to the role you're applying for but if you can't then always go for something from your most recent employer. Edit: Useful little hint/trick for when you have a one-on-one interview: Try to mirror the person interviewing you in some way (not the way they sit/move, obviously... you don't want to weird them out). Some people might not admit it, but most interviewers would be more keen to pick someone who reflects them.
Getting invited to an interview means you've passed the first hurdle - your application must have made a good impression. Now you need to prepare yourself for the interview to make sure you don't waste the opportunity. Before the dayGet informationFind out about the employer and the job - you could ask the employer if they have an information pack or speak to people you know who work or have worked for the company. The library may have business information in directories such as the 'UK Kompass Register'. Try to find out the answer to the following questions: • what do they do/make/sell? • who are their customers? • what sort of organisation are they? • financial information - turnover, profits etc. • what exactly will the job involve? • what sort of person do you think they want? • how can you best fit your skills to match the job? Plan for the interview Then think about the interview itself: • Who will be interviewing? If it is your prospective manager, the interview may be more detailed. If the Personnel Manager is interviewing, it may be less direct or detailed, but could still be testing. • Will there be a test to take? Find out before the interview and ask for an example of the things you'll be asked to do. • If you have a disability, contact the employer prior to the interview if you require any particular arrangements. Check the day before to ensure details have been noted prior to your arrival. Prepare for questions you might be asked The following is a list of questions you may be asked at an interview. Some suggestions are given which you may like to use to prepare your own answer. Thorough preparation will give you the confidence to do your best at an interview. 1. Why do you want to work here? Mention: • Good reputation of the firm • Any other positive information you have about the firm, e.g. their training record • It will give you a chance to do work which interests you 2. Why did you leave your last job? Explaining briefly and honestly the reasons why your last job ended. If there is anything positive to say, say it, e.g.: If you left for health reasons point out that you are now fit and reassure the employer that you can do the duties required, or, if you were dismissed, that you take responsibility for your actions and have learnt from the experience. 3. Have you done this kind of work before? • Yes - tell them the skills you have and how you can use them. • No - quickly describe other work experience which will help you learn the job quickly. Emphasise your interest and enthusiasm to learn. 4. What did you do in your last job? Describe: • skills and duties relevant to new job • machines/equipment used • your responsibilities • people you dealt with • how long you were there • if you were promoted 5. What kinds of equipment can you operate? • Name any type of equipment relevant to the new job • Your training/qualifications • Length of time you have operated this equipment 6. How long have you been out of work - how do you spend your time? Describe: • jobsearch activity • voluntary work • further education or study • hobbies 7. Why have you had a) so many jobs? b) only one job? Mention: a) so many jobs? You wanted to widen your experience in different types of work/firms. Many of the jobs were temporary. You would rather be in work than out of work. b) only one job? You had several different jobs within your last employment. The opportunity to develop. Their good record in training and development. 8. Why should I take you on? • Be ready for this question and answer confidently and positively • Describe your skills and experience and how they relate to this job • Reassure the employer that you are hard-working, reliable and capable 9. Aren't you over-qualified? Emphasise: • You are looking for something fresh/new/different • You can take as well as give instructions 10. How do you get on with people? • Describe how you have previously worked as part of a team • Mention your ability to get on with people at all levels • Give examples 11. What makes a good team member? Describe the skills required e.g.: • good communication • flexibility • adaptability • co-operation • sense of humour 12. How do you cope with pressure? Describe the pressures in previous jobs using a recent example, e.g. how you coped with a changed deadline, completed a rush order or dealt with staff shortages. 13. What are your strengths and weaknesses? They should already know your strengths from your Application Form/CV or they would not be interviewing you, but if they ask about any weaknesses: • Start by describing parts of your last job that you found testing but explain how you overcame these problems • Be fairly brief but honest, e.g. "I can sometimes be a little too enthusiastic". Note: Employers value people who can admit their mistakes rather than blaming their failings on others. 14. What would you like to be doing in five years time? Explain that you would ideally like to be working for the same company but to have developed within it. 15. When was the last time you did anything stupid/lost your temper? Avoid describing a work example. Use something from your personal life that with hind-sight you would not do again. Explain how you learned from the experience. 16. What wage do you expect to earn? If the wage level is negotiable - be prepared to negotiate. The dilemma is "where to pitch your bid?" Too high, you could price yourself out. Too low, you could lose out. Before going to the interview find out about wage levels in the company and compare them with your current needs. 17. How often were you absent from your last job? • If rarely - say so • If absence has been a problem - explain why and reassure the employer that you are now completely fit or the problem will not recur 18. When would you be available to start? As soon as possible! Do not put any barriers in the way. 19. Do you have any questions? You may like to prepare for this - it is almost always asked at the interview. You could ask: • why is the job vacant? • why did the last person leave? • who would I report to? • what training will I do, if any? • what would my first job be? • does the company carry out Job Reviews? If yes - how often? • how soon will I hear about the result of my application? • how would I be paid? Plan your journey • Consider a "dummy run" before the day of the interview or check how long the journey will take. • If necessary ask the Employer for directions, bus routes or details of car parking. • Plan an alternative means of getting there and be prepared for the unexpected. • If you have a disability, check there are no obstacles which could cause you problems or delays. Think about what you will wear This may depend upon the sort of work you will be doing: • Give yourself plenty of time to decide what to wear and get the clothes ready the day before. • You don't have to buy a new outfit! Aim for neat, tidy, clean and uncluttered appearance. • If you look good it will help you feel good! Gather together the written information you will need at the interview • CV, references, certificates, portfolio or examples of your work (if requested by the Employer). • Re -read the job advert to refresh your memory - make sure you haven't missed something. Questions to Ask the Interviewer The interview is a two-way process. The company interviewing you will want to find out whether you are suitable to the position and you will want to find out if the company and position are right for you. You should therefore ensure that you have enough information to make up your mind whether you want the job. For example: • What will be my responsibilities? • Where will I fit into the overall organisational structure? • Who will I report to? • Where does he/she fit in the structure? • Who will report to me? • How experienced are they? • What do you expect me to do in the first 6 months? • What level of performance do you expect from me? • Who are your customers? • Where is the company going? Upwards? Expansion plans? • What are the chances of advancement/promotion in this position? When? • What will be my salary, benefits and bonuses? [Do not bring this up too early in the interview - wait until they are sold on you.] • Will travelling be required in this position? • Will relocation be required now or in the future? • What training do you provide? • When will you decide on the appointment? • What is the next step? And finally • Try to get a good night's sleep! The day of your interview Before Leaving • Give yourself plenty of time to get ready • Make sure you've got all relevant paperwork, e.g. CVs, invitation letter • If you are unavoidably delayed, Telephone early to explain, apologise and try to get another appointment On Arrival • Aim to arrive about 10 minutes before the interview time • Give your name to the receptionist or whoever is there to greet you • Try to relax and keep calm • Chat to the receptionist or whoever greets you, before going into the interview. This will ensure that the first thing you say isn't croaked out because you haven't spoken to anyone for over an hour! Your interview First, accept that the symptoms of nerves - a fast heartbeat, clammy hands and butterflies in the stomach - are natural. These are your body's natural way of meeting a challenge and in small doses can give you the 'oomph' to make a good impression. You will make an impression in the first few minutes. It takes this time for people to assess someone and store this information. Once an impression has been formed, it's seldom changed. It's important to make first impression work for you. Nervous tension may make your voice sound shaky. Practice deep slow breathing before you get to the interview. This will slow down your heart rate and help you avoid taking quick ,shallow breaths. Here are some tips which may help. DO • enter the room confidently • shake hands firmly - and introduce yourself • be polite and friendly - look the interviewer straight in the eye as soon as you enter the room • look interested - ask questions as well as answering • answer questions as fully as you can - avoid yes and no answers • provide examples to prove your achievements • tell the truth • ask if you don't understand a question • speak clearly • sell yourself - get your good points across/be positive • give a friendly smile (if in doubt don't - it is better to look serious than insincere) • DON'T sit until invited • fidget and slouch in the chair • smoke • swear (even mildly) • criticise former employers • interrupt • draw attention to your weaknesses • go over the top - stay calm and stick to the facts Also remember during discussions (and in your letters) employers look again at people who can: • Cut costs • Maintain competitive advantage • Make it look better • Improve the packaging • Get it done more quickly • Avoid potential problems • Improve appearance • Organise it • Increase sales/profits/turnover • Expedite the workflow • Make the boss look good • Use old things in a new way • Provide more information • Cut down time • Open more territories • Provide a tax advantage • Reduce the risks • Meet deadlines easily • Cut staff costs • Reduce inventories • Get Government Support • Develop staff performance • Turn round a bad situation • Introduce new systems • Improve teamwork and relationships Other types of interview Not all interviews will follow the same one-to-one model. You may have to face other interview situations. The following gives a brief outline of some of the different types of interview. Panel Interview The panels are often made up of two or more members, for example Personnel Officer and Head of Section/Foreman/Supervisor. Try not to be intimidated by this situation. Look at the person asking the question, and glance at the others occasionally as you reply. Remember the decision will be made by more than one person which in turn could increase you chance of success. Competency-based Interview These interviews are designed to allow you to demonstrate your level of competency in key areas of the job. You may be asked to discuss examples of your previous work and achievements. The examples you give should be different from those on your original Application Form. Before the interview you will need to list the competencies needed for the job and think about things you have done which illustrate each one. Group Interviews You may be invited to be assessed as part of a group. This is to test how you might work as part of a team. Be prepared to take an active part in the discussion/task and put forward your ideas in an assertive but not aggressive way. Skills Tests These are designed to measure the level of your knowledge, or understanding of the job, such as typing test, driving tests, manual dexterity, etc. Find out what the test will involve and try to practice before the interview. Personality Tests You could face questions on your thoughts, feelings and behaviour in certain situations. There is no such thing as a right or wrong answer as the overall picture is what is important. The end result is a personality rating used to see if the person fits the job advertised. Analysis of these tests is highly skilled and may be used by larger organisations to supplement other recruitment methods. Aptitude Tests These are designed to predict how well you might do certain tasks. They test abilities such as reasoning with words/number/diagrams; problem-solving; following instructions. These are usually set as a test paper which you have to complete within a set time limit. You can try to improve your ability to do these tests by answering or completing practice tests. Dealing with the unexpected The following situations can cause problems but being prepared may help you deal with them if they arise. The unprepared interviewer Not all employers have had training or are experienced in interviewing people. They could be just as nervous as you are about the situation. You might find yourself being talked at and given little opportunity to sell yourself. This may mean waiting for a gap in the conversation and taking the lead during the interview (but not taking over!) Delays and interruption Don't become impatient if the Employer keeps you waiting. They may have good reasons for this, so try to keep calm. If the interviewer is interrupted - for instanced by a Telephone call - offer to leave the room. Uncomfortable surroundings If you find yourself being interviewed in unsuitable surroundings such as a busy public area, or noisy part of a factory - again, keep calm and try to do your best. You could ask the Employer if you could go elsewhere but you will have to use your own judgement as to whether this request would be acceptable. After the interview While it is still fresh in your mind, think about how the interview went: • what went well? • what went badly? • were there any questions you found difficult and why? Use a checklist to help you identify areas for improvement. Did you: • arrive on time? • dress appropriately? • greet the interviewer politely? • sit well and avoid fidgeting? • answer the questions fully enough? • sell myself - stress why I was the best person for the job? • describe my previous duties well? • look at the interviewer and smile occasionally? • thank the interviewer for taking the time to see me? Try to learn as much as you can from each interview. Aim to become more prepared and confident in the future by looking for areas to improve and developing your stronger areas of performance. In this way you will increase your chance of getting that job.
When answering questions regarding or demonstrating past performance and competencies - Situation - tell them about the situation which had arisen which best demonstrates the particular competence the interviewer is asking about Task - tell them what was needed in that situation Action - tell them what you did Result - tell them the outcome (this can be good or bad, but for a bad one you do need to expand on what you learnt from the whole process) S.T.A.R
Wash. Other than that suit up. Know a bit about them. Ask questions, be confident and be a person not a mindless yes/no answer robot. I used to be as "dull" at interview as i could, as in hiding my personality which is dry humoured and a bit witty. I changed and started to be a human at interview and got the first job I applied for. I showed an interest asked questions of them and followed up with a call when I didn't hear back by the day they said. Be confident and don't be afraid to show them why they need you.
I would say I'm good at them. I don't prepare I just prepare some smart clothes. I've never not had an interview for a job or uni etc I've asked for and never failed an interview... I also don't really apply for advertised jobs I just find a job I would like to do find a company who do it and tell them why they should employ me. It's worked so far...
Some good tips around questions here, but something more general that should help whether you're interviewing for a senior executive role or one stacking boxes in a warehouse: Psyche yourself up before you go in (like right before you go in, when you're waiting in reception, in the car on the way there), think about times when you were in charge of something, did something awesome, gained respect of your peers, had your 15 mins of fame etc. I've always found that doing this right before you head in switches the mindset from "I hope they think I'm good for the job" to "of course they'll hire me, I'm awesome". Just be yourself, you don't have to tell them how awesome you are, just knowing you're awesome in your head should help you deal with questions with much more confidence, especially ones you're not expecting.
That, Pookie, is one of the best summations I've come across. That said I'd add/counter a couple of points: 1) if you're shown into an empty interview room sit down if you want to cos you might be waiting ages for them, just remember to stand up when they arrive! 2) I'd recommend you don't take notes at all as someone suggested. It could make them mentally question your memory. Everything will be laid out again if they choose to employ you anyway. 3) Golden rule: do NOT ask about remuneration unless they raise it first. It's a red flag to them as you can come across as more interested in the pay packet than the company and tbf it's irrelevant unless they want to offer you the job. You should already have an idea of salary range even if it's not advertised simply by doing some market research. 4) You can in one instance only say something negative about a previous employer/colleague provided it's not personal and you can put a positive spin on it. For example (an extreme one I admit but it does happen), if asked about a difficult situation you've found yourself in and how did you deal with it, it would be acceptable to say, for instance, you were asked by a manager to do something contrary to company practices (or the law) and chose not to acquiesce but when further pressure was applied you reported the matter to the company in order to protect and maintain its good reputation and uphold its business principles. That demonstrates commitment to the company and integrity on your part.
