INTERVIEW
TECHNIQUES
Interviewing for a
job takes a good amount of self-confidence, panache and interpersonal
communication savvy. They way in which you present yourself during an interview
gives hiring managers a first impression of you as a potential staffer, and
sets the tone for how you would perform in an everyday capacity. Interview
skills for setting yourself apart from your competition include advance
planning and research, an in-depth knowledge of the company, and a
comprehensive understanding of the responsibilities of the role you're seeking.
Research
Capabilities
Quality interview
skills must be employed before you have your first conversation with a hiring
manager. Conducting research into the company, its principals and history not
only arms you well for the interview, but demonstrates your genuine interest in
the organization. It's easier than ever before to conduct this pre-interview
legwork. Your goal should be to have a good conversational knowledge about the
following:
- ·
The company's products and services
- ·
The organization's corporate
philosophy
·
Names and backgrounds of key leaders
in the company, including the person interviewing you
·
The company's history, including
both good and bad media coverage
It's also key to
educate yourself about the particulars that apply specifically to the job
you're seeking as a way to hone your interview skills.
For example, an
interview tip, if you're interviewing for a sales position, should include
educating yourself about who the company's competition is, and be able to
discuss ways in which you feel you could differentiate the business in a sales
role. If you're applying for a job in marketing or advertising, you should
familiarize yourself with current marketing campaigns and strategies, and be
prepared to discuss what you like, what you'd do differently, and why.
So how do you go
about this type of pre-interview prep work? Visit the company's website and
read through pages related to the corporate profile, leadership biographies and
product and service offerings. Also conduct an online search using the
"news" filter to get an unbiased accounting of how the organization
is viewed by the media. Consider searching the Better Business Bureau and
online reviews from previous employees and customers to give you a big-picture
view of how others see the company.
Knowledge
of the Role
A key interview
skill is in understanding the particulars of what the company wants to see in a
candidate for the position you're seeking. This means reading the job
description carefully and dissecting it piece by piece. Some requirements are
generic and non-specific, such as, "good communication skills" and
"team player." While the terminology might be vague, a good skill is
the ability to read between the lines. The language should tel you that the
company values these attributes, which means in an interview, you should both
reference the duties, as well as integrate their meaning into your questions
and answers. For example:
From reading the
job posting for this position, I recognize that solid communication skills and
teamwork are important to this organization. They're important to me as well. I
pride myself on always looking for ways to be of service to others in my
division, as I feel it creates a stronger, more cohesive and productive unit. I
also communicate regularly through numerous channels, including email, brief
daily stand-up meetings and project planning software notifications. Are there
other ways people in the organization fulfill these important criteria?
Of course, good
interviewing skills also include an ability to address specifics in an
interview. For example, if a job description calls for an ability to manage
others, your response should be equally as specific. For example:
In my last role, I
supervised a staff of three people, including a graphic artist, a freelance
writer and an administrative assistant. I hired each of them, provided
performance directives, evaluated them, and in one unfortunate case of poor
performance, terminated a staffer.
Articulate
Response Capabilities
How you respond to
questions in an interview isn't just about what you say, but how you say it.
Your responses should be specific to the query posed and should simultaneously
fall in line with whatever you're trying to achieve, be that solidify your
qualifications, demonstrate your knowledge or showcase how you perform under
pressure. Some tips to consider:
Get to the heart of
what the interviewer is asking. If you're asked to describe a challenging boss
from your past, they're not necessarily looking for a detailed analysis about a
jerk you used to work for; rather, they're assessing how you handled a
difficult situation with a superior. This is an opportunity to demonstrate
poise, tact and thoughtful problem-solving abilities.
Offer examples. One
of the best ways to show interviewers what you're like in "real life"
is to use story-telling to answer questions. For instance, if you're asked to
discuss how you handle irate customers, chose a story in which you you used
outside-the-box thinking or creatively crafted a way to diffuse a situation.
Interviews want to see how you think on your feet.
Define your
problem-solving approach. Many interviews use situational and behavioral lines
of questioning to determine how you might approach common issues in the
workplace. When posed a tricky question that doesn't really have a single
"right" answer, use it as an opening to discuss your approach to
problem solving.
Don't let yourself
get rattled by unexpected questions. One great interviewing skill to possess is
knowing when to pause, reflect, or even delay a response while you ponder the
query. That's a great question. Can I give it some thought and revisit the
topic in a few minutes?
Making
Conversation - Not Q&A
Many interviewees
make the mistake of viewing the interview as a one dimensional round of
responding to questions and then clamming up. You can ingratiate yourself to
your hiring manager by being respectful of the questions while steering the
discussion to a back-and-forth conversation. This makes you come across as
personable, approachable and interested in really learning about the role and
how you might best fit in, as opposed to just trying to land a job. For
example:
Q: How would you
handle rapidly-changing priorities over the course of a day?
A: I can appreciate
this is a very fast-paced environment where things change rapidly. Can you give
me an example of the types of competing priorities that come up in an average
workday here?
Also use open-ended
questions to create a back-and-forth dialogue that's more like a conversation
colleagues might have in a meeting. You'll come across like someone who is
already a member of the team, especially if you can weave in details specific
to the company. Example:
Q: Have you ever
had to oversee staffers in several different branches at the same time?
A: In my previous
role, I managed two staffers who were not only in different branches, but in
different times zones. I understand that in addition to the Canadian branch of
the company you're also planning to open another location in Switzerland in
2020? I'd love to learn more about how this role would interface with that new
development team.
Asking
Smart Questions
Asking questions
about the job is a sure-fire way to demonstrate your genuine interest. Keep
notes during the course of the interview conversation so you can easily
articulate a few well-places queries Link them to the role, if you can, so your
interviewer can start to envision you holding the position. For example:
You mentioned a new
product line being developed. Can you tell me more about that, and how this
position would be involved with market research prior to launch?
I recognize there
are multiple facets to this position. Can you tell me what an average day might
look like for me if I'm selected for the role?
I recall hearing
about the ad department winning an award from the International Association of
Business Communicators last year. That's really impressive - does marketing
regularly participate in industry associations?
Turning
Negatives Into Positives
No one has all the
answers all the time, and rarely does a single candidate possess every single
attribute outlined in a job description. As such, you're more likely to make a
good impression by knowing when to own up to a lack of knowledge in an area
than you are trying to talk your way out of something you know little about.
Example:
While I haven't yet
had the opportunity to conduct conference seminars, it's something I'm very
eager to come up to speed on. I've been participating in Toastmasters
International as well as taking professional development classes in public
speaking. I also volunteer every time there's an opportunity internally,
whether it's reading the minutes from a past meeting or giving a department
update. I'm quite comfortable with the idea - I just need an opportunity to get
my feet wet and prove myself.
Being
Open
While much of an
interview is about showcasing your best professional self, being able to
present a self-assured, confident yet personable nature is a job-seeking skill
that can give you an edge. Interviewers are looking for someone to join a team,
to fit into a workplace dynamic and be a contributing, productive and
professional member of a cohesive unit. Showing your personality is important,
for several reasons.
If you bluff your
way into a job by being someone other than your true self, the odds aren't good
that it will be a lasting fit.
If you really can't
do all of the elements of the job, you've wasted not just the employer's time,
but your time as well.
There's more to
being the right person for the job than just checking off boxes on a list of
qualifications. There's something to be said for a group or team jelling and
working well together. This means being able to openly asses the environment
and deciding if you're a fit. For example, if you're a straight-laced,
business-only person, a laid-back startup where everyone wears earbuds and
sneakers might not be for you, despite the fact that your resume meets every
job qualification.
Of course, in
addition to the big picture approach to developing and utilizing quality
interview skills, interviews that get you hired include basic tried-and-true
fundamentals that, if ignored, could cost you a job before you even get a foot
in the door. Things to keep in mind:
·
Be on time and prepared. Leave
additional time for your commute, especially if you're going to an unfamiliar
location.
·
Be nice to the receptionist. In an
office, people talk, and if you're dismissive of someone or you are unkind, it
will get back to the big boss.
·
Come prepared. Even if you have
previously sent your resume, bring additional copies, work product or samples,
and have a notebook and pen for note taking.
·
Turn off your phone and other
electronic devices.
·
Dress appropriately. Even in a
relaxed environment, business attire is always appropriate for an interview.
·
Don't lie or mislead your
interviewer. Your work history, education and references should all be
100-percent legit.
·
Never forget to say thank you after
your interview. While it may seem an old-fashioned or an unnecessary nicety, a
follow-up thank-you note is professional, thoughtful and courteous, and it
demonstrates your respect for the people who took time to meet with you.
|
Our
Best Job Interview Tips
|
|
1. Start by researching the company and your
interviewers.
2. Practice your answers to common interview
questions.
3. Re-read the job description.
4. Use the STAR method in answering questions.
5. Recruit a friend to practice answering questions.
6. Prepare a list of references.
7. Be prepared with examples of your work.
8. Plan your interview attire the night before.
9. Prepare smart questions for your interviewers.
10.
Bring copies of your resume, a notebook and pen.
11.
Arrive 15 minutes early to your interview.
12.
Make a great first impression.
13.
Treat everyone you encounter with respect.
14.
Practice good manners and body language.
15.
Win them over with your authenticity and positivity.
16.
Respond truthfully to the questions asked.
17.
Tie your answers back to your skills and accomplishments.
18.
Keep your answers concise and focused.
19.
Do not speak negatively about your previous employers.
20.
Ask about next steps.
21.
Send a personalized thank you letter after the interview.
|
21 INTERVIEW TIPS
1. Research the company
This is not an
option! It is extremely important to gain basic information about the company
for which you are interviewing. In a study, 47% of interviewers revealed that
they wouldn’t offer the job to a candidate if they had little knowledge of the
company.
Look up for
important information about the company - vision and mission, key personnel,
and recent milestones. You should also read up the latest news about the
specific department or vertical for which you are interviewing.
2. Analyze job description
Along with
researching the company, be sure to note the key focus areas of the role you
applied for. Read carefully the job description, and make a list of the points
to justify how you are capable of achieving these specific duties.
In case you have
past experience, mention briefly critical instances where you have contributed.
Be eager and enthusiastic but not desperate.
3. Brush up basics
Along with an
impressive personality, you also need excellent subject knowledge. Whether you
are a fresher or an experienced professional, you can expect certain tough
questions. Brush up your subject fundamentals if you are a fresher. In case you
have work experience, organize your thoughts about your work and present them
well.
4. Prepare for tests
Do prepare for any
written tests, activities, and/or presentations that may be mentioned in the
job posting. This way, there will be no surprises during the interview and you
will be mentally prepared for it.
5. Prepare for potential interview questions
Most of the
interviews have many common questions. Some of the examples of such common
questions are - 'tell me about yourself', 'describe who you are', 'why should I
hire you', 'why do you want this job', 'where do you see yourself in five
years', etc. Make a list of such potential questions related to the job
profile, background, company, etc. and prepare for them in advance.
6. Be punctual ⏰
Reach well in time
to appear professional. People who arrive late are often rejected even before
they appear for the interview. Plan your method and route of travel in advance.
Also, keep a time buffer in case of heavy traffic or some other reason. This
way you can reach on time without being stressed.
7. Be attentive
Good communication
skills can go a long way in impressing the interviewer. Listen carefully to
everything the interviewer is saying. This is not the time to daydream or be
distracted. Match their pace of talking to better connect with them while also
making sure you heard what was said.
8. Speak clearly
Maintain clarity of
speech at all times to project confidence and clarity of thought. When
communicating, speak in a calm and clear manner. Don’t be in a rush to get all
the answers out. Avoid mumbling as it makes you look nervous and unsure. If you
do not know the answer, be honest about it.
9. Maintain good body language
A lot of
communication is indeed non-verbal. And this is critical in an interview. In
fact, 33% of employers figure out within the first 90 seconds of an interview
whether they will hire someone.
Slouching in your
seat, sitting in a laidback position or being fidgety can go against you.
Instead, sit upright and keep a smile on your face.
10. Make eye contact
When you talk to an
interviewer, be sure to look at them. Don’t look down or at the wall or the
clock. This shows a lack of confidence. Communicate with the interviewer by
making eye contact. This displays confidence while allowing you to make an
engaged connection.
11. Rehearse explaining your resume
An interviewer is
likely to ask you - 'Please walk me through your resume'. This is the time to
elaborate on certain important accomplishments in your resume. Stick to
specific examples or tasks regarding that accomplishment. It is advisable to
rehearse these before the interview. This way you aren’t taking too much time
at the interview itself. Formulate crisp and clear answers that get your point
across.
12. Know what and when to speak
Keep in mind you
are in a formal setting. Even if the interviewer is acting friendly, avoid
inappropriate abatements. Don’t use casual slang or jargon. In addition, avoid
statements about race, religion or politics. Stick to what the interviewer is
talking about and respond in a polite and formal manner.
13. Interview mode
Don’t wait till you
reach the interview room to be polite and professional. Switch on your
interview mode as soon as you enter the interview venue.
Be it with the
person at the reception desk and any other staff member, be on your best
behaviour from the minute you reach the office. You never know who all have a
say in your job.
14. Do not waste time
The interviewer
probably has a very busy day planned. Do not waste their time. Be direct in
your answers and do not beat around the bush. There will be some tough
questions you may not know the answers to. In such cases, politely accept that
you are not aware but ready to learn. Don’t try guesswork or try to fool the
interviewer. Sometimes tough questions are just a way to see how well you
respond under pressure.
15. Customize your answers
When asked about a
particular skill set, do not have one standard answer for every Company you
apply to. Instead, list out the ways your skills can add value to the role and
company for which you are interviewing.
16. Mention your strengths
You will get
several chances in the interview to talk about your strengths. This can be in
the classic 'What are your strengths' question, or you can be asked about a
particular project listed on your resume. Be confident and informative when
talking about your strengths but do not be arrogant or boastful.
17. Define your career goal
Your career goal or
objective should be clear in your mind. Frame the answer to this question so it
is ready if asked. Do not leave it general or vague as it can show lack of
ambition and clarity. Instead, talk about how you expect to grow in your field.
18. Follow the interviewer’s lead
Every interviewer
may have a different style of talking and conducting an interview. Follow their
lead in their way of talking and professional behaviour. This will show you can
listen well and adapt easily to the office environment.
19. Ask the right questions
The interviewer may
ask you if you have any questions. Here, do not hesitate to bring up whatever
concerns you. However, ask only relevant questions. These can be about
attributes of the specific job and the department. Any random questions can be
dealt with later.
20. Stay motivated
In case you feel
the interview isn’t going as well as you hoped, don’t be sad or demotivated😴. Continue to reply honestly and enthusiastically.
Remember, a positive attitude can leave a good impression on the interviewer.
If you appear sad or disappointed, it shows a lack of ability in handling
difficult situations worsening your chances.
21. Show gratitude
No matter how your
interview goes, always take a moment to thank the interviewers for their time
and consideration. A positive attitude and polite behaviour can go a long way
in impressing people.
Remember, the
interview is all about you and how well you represent yourself. So be confident
and follow the above tips. We are sure you will be able to do a good job!
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/job-interview-tips-how-to-make-a-great-impression
Comments
Post a Comment