Interview Techniques During
the interview, you will be assessed for your strengths and weaknesses. In
addition to this, specific personal characteristics will be probed, such as
attitude, aptitude, stability, motivation and maturity.
Interview
Plan
DO'S:
DO arrive on time or a few minutes early. Late arrival for a job interview is
never excusable.
DO fill out any application forms neatly and completely. If you have a personal
resume, be sure that the person to whom you release it is the person who will
actually do the hiring.
DO greet the interviewer by his or her title and surname. If you are not sure
of the name pronunciation, ask the interviewer to repeat it.
DO shake hands firmly.
DO wait until you are offered a chair before sitting. Sit upright in your chair
and look alert and interested at all times.
DO be as charismatic as possible; it is very important that you demonstrate
your interpersonal skills during the interview.
DO be a good listener as well as a good talker.
DO smile.
DO look the interviewer in the eye.
DO follow the interviewer's leads. Try, however, to obtain a full description
of the position and duties it incorporates at an early stage so that you can
relay your appropriate background and skills accordingly.
DO make sure that your good points get across to the interviewer in a concise,
factual and sincere manner. Waffle will get you nowhere. Bear in mind that only
you can sell yourself and make the interviewer aware of the benefits that you
can offer to the organisation.
DO always conduct yourself as if you are determined to get the job you are
discussing. Never close the door on an opportunity. It is better to be in a
position where you can choose from a number of offers rather than only one.
DON'TS:
DON'T smoke even if the interviewer smokes and offers you a cigarette.
DON'T answer questions with a simple 'yes' or 'no'. Explain yourself whenever
possible. Describe those things about yourself that relate to the position on
offer.
DON'T lie. Answer questions truthfully, frankly and as close to the point as
possible.
DON'T make derogatory remarks about your present or former employers.
DON'T 'over answer' questions. The interviewer may steer the conversation into
politics or economics, which can be controversial topics. It is best to respond
to such issues honestly, yet trying not to say more than is necessary.
DON'T enquire about salary, holidays, bonuses etc. at the initial interview
unless you are positive that the interviewer wants to hire you. You should,
however, know your market value and be prepared to specify your required salary
or range.
