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:

1. the candidate can do the job
2. the candidate can fit in the organization
3. the candidate best suits or suited for the position

The objective of the interviewee is to determine whether:

1. they can get the job
2. they can do the job
3. the job offers opportunities for career advancement or experience

Preparing for an interview

To succeed in an interview,it is important to:

1. know your CV
2. know your potential employer
3. know the date, time and place of the interview
4. research the company's history and the position for which you applied
5. understand commonly used interview styles

Do's of an interview

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

Don'ts of an Interview:

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

Questions you may ask the interviewer

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

Common mistakes made during an interview

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

Types of Job Interviews

1. phone Interviews
2. one-on-one interviews / face-to-face Interviews
3. multiple interviews
4. group interviews
5. panel interviews
6. teleconferencing / web conferencing interviews
7. breakfast, lunch or dinner interviews
8. written interviews