Interview Techniques

What is a Job Interview?

This is a formal discussion between a hirer or employer and an applicant/candidate in which information is exchanged with the intention of establishing the applicant's suitability for a position. The objective of the Interviewer is to determine whether:

• the candidate can do the job
• the candidate can fit in the organization
• the candidate best suits or suited for the position

The objective of the interviewee is to determine whether:

• they can get the job
• they can do the job
• the job offers opportunities for career advancement or experience

Preparing for an interview

To succeed in an interview,it is important to:

• know your CV
• know your potential employer
• know the date, time and place of the interview
• research the company's history and the position for which you applied
• understand commonly used interview styles

Do's of an interview

• be on time or arrive slightly early
• dress appropriately for the industry
• turn off your mobile phone during the interview
• sit still and avoid fidgeting and slouching
• speak clearly and concisely
• use appropriate body language
• take your time when answering the questions
• ask for clarification if you don't understand a question
• be positive about yourself and your experiences
• prepare some questions to ask at the end of the interview
• keep your answers focused on what you can do for the employer, not what they can do for you
• thank Interviewer(s) in person, or send a thank you note by email or postal mail

Don'ts of an Interview:

• don't be late
• don't swear or use slang words
• don't be too relaxed or do anything that makes you look uninterested
• don't lie
• don't chew gum , smoke or smell of alcohol don't be
• don't be arrogant and assume you've got the job
• don't read from notes or your CV
• don't badmouth former employers or colleagues
• don't argue with the interviewer, no matter what

Questions you may ask the interviewer

• do you offer continuing education and professional training?
• how do you define success for this job?
• when can I expect to hear from you?

Common mistakes made during an interview

• arriving late for the interview
• failure to turn off cell phones
• appearing disinterested
• showing off - employers are rarely impressed by displays of ego
• swearing or introducing jokes during the interview
• failing to take the opportunity to ask questions
• failure to articulate what you will bring to the organization
• saying too little/too much
• dressing inappropriately
• poor eye contact with the interviewer

Types of Job Interviews

• phone Interviews
• one-on-one interviews / face-to-face Interviews
• multiple interviews
• group interviews
• panel interviews
• teleconferencing / web conferencing interviews
• breakfast, lunch or dinner interviews
• written interviews