Interview Techniques

Preparing for job interview questions is not as simplistic as you might think. More and more employers are looking to ditch the traditional interview questions for more open-ended, detailed ones. Behavioural questions are quickly becoming popular to ask during an interview. They are typically the most important and can often sabotage an interview if answered incorrectly.

Most behavioural questions begin with, “Tell me about a time when” or “Give me an example of.” When asked behavioural questions, consider your achievements, or a tough customer that you were able to turn around. Be sure to describe the problem, how you handled it, and what the results were.

Behavioural questions are designed to find out how a potential employee dealt with past situations. This gives the employer an idea of how the potential employee thinks, what their work ethics might be and how they will likely handle certain situations at your company.

The interviewee clearly states the problem, how they handled it and what the result was. The situation served as both a challenge and an accomplishment. If the question is a little more vague, like “Give me an example of a challenge you had to face at your previous job,” try to look for an example that is relevant to the position you are applying for.

Describe a situation in which you were given constructive criticism. How did you handle it and did you learn anything from it?

Questions for job interviews include the often-asked “Tell Me About Yourself” question. This introductory question can make or break the rest of the job interview so it’s crucial to prepare an answer that not only demonstrates your abilities but also places you in the lead position from the very beginning.

After you have formulated your list of answers, begin jotting down some of your own questions to ask during an interview. You will have the opportunity to address your concerns towards the end of the interview. Employers do expect you to ask at least a few questions. Otherwise, you may give the impression that you are uninterested or unable to think for yourself. Keep in mind, though, that these types of interviews are very short, so only ask important and relevant questions.

There is no set number of questions that you need to ask. Just remember that the interview time is limited. Three to five questions should suffice. Being prepared ahead of time will make the interview process less nerve racking and more pleasurable.

When deciding which questions to ask during an interview, there are a few things to keep in mind. The employer will, without a doubt, make a judgment about you based on the questions you ask. Make each one count. Refrain from asking any questions about salary or benefits. Avoid asking any questions you can easily find answers to on the company’s website. This will give the impression that you are not interested in the organization or are ill prepared. Instead, try asking questions that prove you have done your homework. You may start the question with, “I read on the company’s website that…”

Following are three strong interviewing questions that show you are interested in success for both getting the job and doing well once you have the job.

·What are some of the bigger challenges and opportunities for this role?

·Do you see the department growing within the next year or so?

·What are the next steps in the interview process?

Some more examples of questions to raise are:-

·Why is the previous holder of the position leaving?

·Should I be extended a job offer, how soon would I be expected start?

·What are the day-to-day responsibilities of this position?

·How would you describe the company culture?

·Who does the holder of this position report to?

Remember though that some of these may have already been answered during the course of the interview, so don’t ask them again, otherwise it may seem that you haven’t been paying attention.

Many people who attend job interviews don’t even do the basic research on the company. In many interviews the first interview question is; “What do you know about our company?” And if you answer this question well then you have demonstrated that you have done your homework and that you are keen to work for the company. Read up on the Vision, Mission and the Values of the company and see how your personal values align to the company’s values.

Be Prepared- Make sure you have gathered all the needed materials ahead of time. It is good practice to be available 5 minutes ahead of the meeting time. Some interviewers actually call early deliberately to test potential candidates. Make sure you have a copy of your resume as well as the job description. If internet access is available, pull up the employers website so you may reference it if needed. Create a list of questions you would like to ask during the conversation and make note of their answers.

·Breathe to relax – Take three deep breaths, hold for 3 seconds, and expel the air quickly. This changes your physiology and psychology, and will relax you.

·Unless you’re sure your mobile phone service is going to be perfect, consider using a landline rather than your mobile phone to avoid a dropped call or static on the line.

·Smile. Smiling will project a positive image to the interviewer and will change the tone of your voice.

·Check how the interviewerswant to be addressed (If they introduce themselves as Mr(s). Last Name, then use that title. If they introduce themselves as First name / Last Name, then use the first name.

·Remember to say “thank you.”

·Follow up with a thank you note which reiterates your interest in the job. A hand-written, hand delivered short ‘thank you’ card is even better, if it’s feasible for you.