Job interview
The interview
If you are asked to attend an interview it means that your job application, or what you said over the telephone has impressed the employer enough to get you this far.
Now you have a chance to convince the employer in person that you are the best person for the job. Employers look for people who have suitable qualifications and work experience for the job, who are keen to do their best in the job, and who will be able to get on with other employees.
Preparing for the interview
As the interviewer will be comparing your skills and abilities with those of others, it is essential that you prepare so that you can present yourself successfully. Careful preparation for the interview will also help you to feel more confident.
Try the following:
- practice interviews with friends or family
- find out all you can about the organisation, its products and services
- take your job application folder to the interview, as well as a list of questions you may want to ask
- re-read your letter of application and the details of the job advertisement, especially if it is some time since you applied for the job
- re-read a copy of your résumé as you will probably be questioned on statements you have made.
At the interview
The interview may be conducted by a personnel or recruitment officer, a manager or any person in a senior position. Sometimes there may be a panel of two or three interviewers.
Remember that there is likely to be a large number of applicants and that you will have to present yourself successfully in order to convince the employer that you are the best person for the job.
Most interviewers realise that you will be nervous and will make allowances for it. You can create a good impression by being:
- punctual - be at least 10 minutes early. This will also give you the chance to familiarise yourself with your surroundings (which may help you relax). You may be tense, so try using a relaxation technique that works for you, such as deep breathing
- dressed suitably - wear your best work outfit. The things to remember are cleanliness, simplicity and no strong or 'loud' colours
- well prepared - take your job application folder to the interview, as well as a list of questions you may want to ask
- polite - have the right attitude whenever you speak or answer questions. Remember to smile and shake hands when you meet the person who will interview you
- thoughtful - take time to think a question through and then answer in a clear and logical way
- confident - ask the interviewer to repeat or explain a question if you do not understand it
- calm - an interviewer may be aggressive in order to test your ability to remain calm in a stressful situation.
If you feel that tension is spoiling your performance, then the best way to relieve it may be to admit the problem: 'I am afraid I am feeling rather nervous and I am not really doing justice to the questions you are asking me.' This is an honest admission that may improve the atmosphere of the interview. Equally, a false note of sincerity can kill your chances.
Questions employers might ask
- Why do you think you are suitable for this position?
- Why would you like this job?
- What qualifications do you have for this job?
- Why have you applied for this job?
- What are your strengths/weaknesses/faults?
- Do you work well with others, as part of a team?
- Are you willing to undertake more study?
- Why do you think we should employ you?
- What have you got to offer us?
- What do you know about this organisation?
- Are you a member of any clubs or organisations?
Questions you might ask
An interviewer will often ask you at the end of the interview if you have any questions. Be prepared. Asking questions is one way of showing you are prepared and interested in the job.
Some of the things you might want to know about are:
- more details about what the job actually involves, including daily duties and hours of work
- what the prospects are for advancement and training and whether training is on the job or after hours
- why the position is vacant
- the pay, but do not overemphasise its importance - it is important that you appear more interested in the job than in the pay
- the time it will take to notify applicants whether they have been successful or not.
After your interview
At the end of the interview, thank the interviewers for their time, by name if you can remember them.
If the interview results in a direct offer for the job and you are sure that the job meets your needs, accept it.
If you are unsure about accepting the job and wish to discuss it with others, ask if you could think it over and let them know the next day.
If you have not heard from an employer after a reasonable time, it is a good idea to follow up and ask if they have reached a decision. It shows you are still interested.
Content provided by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations and The Good Guides Group.