Interview Techniques

Preparation is key to a successful job interview. Candidates should always research the company that they are applying to and rehearse and prepare answers to the standard interview questions. It is also important to prepare a couple of relevant questions that convey some knowledge of the company and the role. You should also be fully comfortable with your own CV and know the correct dates for your education and work history.

There are some basic Do’s and Don’ts that can offer a good basic guideline for candidates who are preparing for interview.

Good Interview Do’s

• Be on time for interview
• Dress appropriately
• Ensure that you have the correct address and the name of the interviewee
• Make eye contact & offer a firm handshake
• Be enthusiastic and confident
• Listen to the questions carefully and try and answer concisely without veering off the point

Bad Interview Don’ts

• Do not be critical or negative about a previous employer
• Do not slouch or fidget – it will detract from your answers
• Avoid slang’s and clichés
• Do not discuss salary – leave the question open by saying that you are open to a reasonable offer
• Do not make statements that cannot be substantiated

Every interview will differ but there are some standard questions that will tend to come up and so it is always a good idea to have some prepared answers.

• Why should we hire you?
• Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
• Name your weaknesses / strengths?
• What can you bring to the company?
• Why do you want to work for this company?
• What are you looking for in your next job?

Overall it is important to be yourself in interview

Here are samples of some of the questions you may be asked in interview:

1. Where can you see yourself in five years time?

2. What skills can you bring to the company after having read the job spec?

3. Describe yourself as a person.

4. Give examples of situations of where you have shown initiative?

5. Your strengths and weaknesses

6. Reason for leaving current and previous employers.

7. Examples of where you have shown initiative in the past

8. Progression through various companies.

9. Have you ever made a huge mistake in work, and if so how did you deal with it?

10. Do you prefer to work on your own , or as part of a team ?

11. What has been the highpoint /low point of your working career to date ?

Sample Questions you should ask in interview:

1. What are the opportunities for progression and development like a couple of years down the line?

( This question will highlight your long term commitment to a company )

2. Describe a typical working day in the office?

3 Ask them how many people are working in the department and how is it structured ?

4. What training courses would the recommend you do in order to advance yourself within the company?