Job Interview Tips

HOW TO PREPARE A JOB INTERVIEW

There are three steps to a good interview preparation.

1. Research the website, company data, products and services.
2. Prepare for questions from your CV – know it inside & out!

You will be better prepared for your interview if you develop mini-stories about your accomplishments. This will help you answer interview questions by providing examples and make it easier to remember your accomplishments under stressful situations. Begin by describing an accomplishment and the skills the skills that were used in that situation. See if you can break it down into a 5 or 6 sentence “story” describing the challenge, action, and result.
You also need to be prepared to answer specific technical questions about your areas of expertise. The information below will help you understand the different types of questions you may be asked.

IN THE JOB INTERVIEW

Listen carefully to whether a question will prompt an automatic positive or negative response. Turn the negative and neutral questions into a positive example. Give specific, positive examples describing your experiences and attributes.
The goal of the job interview is to obtain information about a company/job while persuading the employer that you have the skills they need. The employer’s goal is to promote the company, while gathering information about you. Everyone has something to gain from a good interview.

DO

DON'T

Get clear directions to the exact location
Arrive about 10 minutes early – never late
Dress appropriately and be free from breath and body odors
Be organized & prepared
Look professional
Bring extra copies of your CV, references, bring a nice pen and a pad
Prepared questions that you would like answered
Smile frequently
Answer questions honestly and without hesitation
Be confident
Be sincere
Maintain good eye contact
Talk in terms of the employer and what you can do for them
End the interview by asking what the next step will be

Carry a large handbag or heavy briefcase
Take a seat unless offered one
Wear clothes that are soiled and baggy
Fidget
Chew gum
Contradict yourself
Wear a flashy tie or clashing colors
Falsify information
Get too friendly. Keep it formal and relaxed

Questions you ask

An interview is the time to learn more about the company’s philosophy, different aspects of the job for which you are applying, and what the company requires of its employees. These questions are as important as the ones asked of you.

Questions NOT to ask

Never ask personal questions of the interviewer. Examples might include how they got their job, or what they think of the firm. These questions may be important to you, however, the first interview is not the time to get the answers. This information will be supplied when the time is right. For example, don’t ask about company retirement plans, vacations, bonuses, and holidays until you have received or are in the process of negotiating an offer.

Questions you NEVER ask

Never ask the interviewers opinion of a former employee. And, never discuss politics or religion, unless the position is of a political or religious nature or it involves diversity issues.

BEYOND JOB SUCCESS

Looking for a job is not always easy. Many studies have shown that losing a job and/or looking for a job is one of the most stressful events that people have to endure. In addition to finding a job, you must come up with a way to manage your finances, stay healthy, deal with your emotions, and find time for your friends, families, and hobbies.

Make the most of your new job

You’ll succeed in your new job by doing the best you can, regardless of whether the job is a temporary position or a professional job in your chosen field. Here are a few tips for the new employee:

Be a dependable employee! This lets your supervisor know your job is important to you. Master your tasks and do more than is expected. Avoid “it’s not my job” thinking. Keep the lines of communication open. Inform your supervisor of how you’re progressing and ask for regular feedback on your performance. If any assignments are unclear, ask for clarification instead of proceeding in the wrong direction because you are fearful of looking foolish.
Enjoy the company of your co-workers. Get to know and be known by others in your work environment … your professional growth depends on it.
As a newcomer, avoid “office politics”. Maintain confidentiality and avoid gossip. Ask for advice and help from others, and let them know they can depend on you. Learn the art of tact when working on a team, which includes being receptive to others’ input and knowing when to compromise.
Be assertive, self-confident, and visible. Think if the three “E s” – enthusiasm, energy, and excellence.

Your employer is your partner in finding balance between the world of work and your personal and family life.

Best wishes in your new career!