Following are some important tips that Northern Rivers Group Training hopes, can assist you in making the most of your interview!
An interview is about selling yourself to your prospective employer and making them believe you are the right person for the position. In making this statement the employer will assess such things as your skills, strengths & weaknesses, work experience and how your personality would fit in to their work environment.
Preparation
Is one of the most important steps you can take to performing well. Employers are often amazed at the number of applicants who don't bother finding out about the position/industry they are applying for.
It is important to be aware of your own selling points. For example as yourself "What am i good at?" and "What do I want out of this job" this will show your prospective employer that you have confidence in yourself and am interested in the position.
When going to your interview it is important to be prepared, have your resume,portfolio and other documents organized in a way that will best suit you.
Common Questions
Questions you might be asked include:
- Why should we employ you? / Why do you want this job?
- Why would you like t work for our organisation? / What do you know about us?
- What does teamwork mean to you?
- How do you see yourself in five years time?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?
Appearance
Careful planning of your appearance is essential, as this could be what sets you apart from all other applicants. If you are well presented, it shoes you care about the job you are applying for and are willing to make the effort. You should be comfortable with what you wear otherwise you may find yourself focusing too much on your clothing rather than the interview questions.
To summarise, here are some do's and don'ts to guide you through the interview process
Things to do include the following:
- Arrive 5-15 minutes early to give yourself time to settle down
- Greet the interviewer with a warm smile and a handshake
- Maintain good posture throughout your interview
- Maintain eye contact with your interviewer when spoken to
- Ask for a question to be repeated or clarified if you don't understand it
- Don't rush, take time to think about the question then answer
- Use examples to make your points credible
- Enquire as to what happens after the interview (ie: "Will you call me to let me know?")
- Thank the interviewer/s for their time
- If you have not heard anything by the time specified, phone and ask. If you have not been successful, Ask for feedback
Things to avoid include the following
- One syllable answers, e.g "yes" "no"
- Avoid being repetitive e.g saying "like" or "as"
- Fidgeting
- Interrupting a question
- Criticising previous employers and / or teaching staff
Good Luck!
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